Contribution of Information Technology in Strategic Implementation of Digital Learning in Public Universities in Sri Lanka due to Covid-19. Studies in Comparative Education

Abstract

This study attempts to identify the contribution of information technology (IT) in the strategic implementation of digital learning and its impact on public universities in the Sri Lankan context due to COVID-19. This research further attempts to investigate the effectiveness of the digital learning that has been implemented, including in academics due to COVID-19, its connectivity implementation in public universities in Sri Lanka, and the challenges encountered by the lecturers and students. The objectives of this study were to recognize the positive and negative impacts of virtual studies and their adaptation and identify the opportunities for future digital learning in the academic educational system in public universities in Sri Lanka. This research was conducted at eight public universities in Sri Lanka. The methodology of this study was qualitative. The sample of this study was purposive. Data collection was held through an interview guide constructed with open-ended questions related to the study, and the data was analyzed thematically. This study's findings cover virtual learning implementation, blended learning and distance evaluation, and change adaptation. Based on the findings, the researcher considered the recommendations made by academics when providing recommendations for further future studies.