Anticipated and Actual Challenges Pertaining to Online Delivery of University Courses During COVID-19 Pandemic: The Engineering Faculty’s Experience at Assumption University

Abstract

This paper describes the various challenges associated with online delivery of engineering courses at Assumption University of Thailand (AU) during the global Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As COVID-19 became a widespread global crisis, educational institutions around the world were heavily impacted due to the government imposed lockdown and social distancing measures. Responses from various educational institutions varied from completely ceasing learning activities to adopting a fully online delivery mode. In the face of this sudden, disruptive shift, AU responded by switching its program delivery across all faculties to a fully online mode from the middle of March, 2020 until further notice. This significant undertaking involved anticipating challenges associated with online program delivery and acting accordingly to ensure the best possible outcome for all parties involved. Based on AU’s engineering faculty’s experience, the key challenges in effectively delivering online education appeared to be around technology infrastructure, learning curve, accessibility, effectiveness and suitability with specific course types, assessment of students’ performance, and exam integrity. We discuss the anticipated and actual challenges, as well as the measures that were taken by engineering faculty members and decision makers to make this online learning experience effective for all participants.