Abstract:

The rapid transition to online education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant methodological innovations and best practices, particularly in the realm of part-time education. Over the past six semesters, the necessity-driven solutions and subsequent refinements have paved the way for enhanced learning experiences and improved efficiency. In this study, we explore the ongoing process of refining applied solutions based on repeated student feedback in the context of part-time education.

Part-time education necessitates meticulous preparation and organisation by instructors, as the limited number of contact hours compared to full-time education poses challenges in delivering knowledge through face-to-face interactions. Since the spring of 2020, we have fully transitioned part-time education to an online format, encompassing both real-time courses and self-paced learning through videos and e-learning materials. The modifications implemented thus far, informed by student feedback, have played a crucial role in optimising the learning environment. Notable adjustments include the elimination of introductory attendance classes, allowing students to delve directly into substantive content.

In addition to the organisational aspects, our study acknowledges the mutual interest of instructors and students in maximising the efficiency of part-time training and fostering a rewarding learning experience. We emphasise the significance of addressing these areas within the framework of limited opportunities inherent to part-time education. By highlighting the advancements made thus far and outlining the future steps based on recently received feedback, we aim to contribute to the ongoing discourse on optimising part-time education and shaping its future trajectory.

Through this research, we seek to shed light on the trans-formative potential of the COVID-19-induced online education paradigm, specifically within the context of part-time education. By sharing our experiences and insights, we hope to inspire educators and institutions to embrace and further refine the applied solutions, ultimately fostering an environment that promotes efficient learning and meaningful educational experiences for part-time students.

Keywords:

Part-time education, online education, COVID-19, online learning environment.