The Effectiveness of Virtual Labs in Higher Education Institutions of Botswana: A Case Study of Botho University

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the virtual labs implemented by Botho University for Computing program for online distance learning students. This study has evaluated the lecturers’ perception on the usage of virtual labs to enrich students’ learning and experience to enhance their knowledge, skills and competencies. Quantitative research method was employed with closed-end structured questionnaire to collect the data. The SPSS version 21 was used to analyze quantitative data on the role of virtual labs. Findings of the study has shown that, besides students being faced with some challenges, virtual labs have positive impact on students’ learning. Virtual labs are the future of higher education. Virtual labs help students to enhance academic performance and to gain knowledge and skills required for global job-market. This study has recommended to provide training to students to guide for proper utilization of its components. There is a need to upgrade the internet bandwidth and incorporate virtual labs in the curriculum and make its usage mandatory.