Power supply rationing in an era of e-learning: evidence from the rural university

Abstract

In a world, driven by technology, South Africa's battle with power supply rationing, commonly known as load shedding, is sending shockwaves through the education landscape. This study investigates the intricate relationship between load shedding and e-learning, focusing on a rural university in South Africa. It explores how the disruption of the power supply affects the quest for digital education and sheds light on the hidden challenges, faced by both students and lecturers. The energy crisis loomed large, posing a unique threat to the country's academic advancement. This study was carried out at Walter Sisulu University, meticulously dissects the impacts of load shedding on e-learning, providing valuable insights into how these unforeseen challenges are altering the educational landscape. The research blends quantitative data analysis with a qualitative perspective, capturing the real-life experiences of educators and learners navigating a world where power supply can change the course of a digital classroom. The research elucidated the dominance of e-learning during lockdown regulations to curb the spread of coronavirus and a hybrid learning pedagogy that combines both e-learning and physical classes in the post-covid era. The research revealed that e-learning is significantly affected by Loadshedding.