COVID-19 Pandemic and Work From Home (WFH)

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to examine university employees' academic and non-academic experiences while working from home during the movement control order (MCO) period (implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The study focuses on experiences related to four issues: communication, situational factors, believes and attitudes, and homework interference. It also examines the perceived outcomes (in terms of productivity) of working from home (WFH). Empirical data were collected from university staff using a survey questionnaire distributed online. The findings suggest that communication among family members increased during the MCO period. Employees have the basic resources necessary to work from home. They believe that WFH allowed them to enjoy flexible working hours and save travelling time and expenses. In addition, they believe that their productivity increased as a result of their family's support while working from home. These findings will help university management to plan future WFH arrangements beyond the MCO period.