CBPM 2025 · Vol. 2025, Issue 1

Assessing the Barriers to Online Learning in the Built Environment Postgraduate Programmes

Abdulfatah S, Ahmadu H.A, Abdulrahman R.S, Bashir A.S and Yamusa M.A

Keywords: Barriers, Online, learning, Education

Abstract

The rapid and ongoing advancement of technology, hardware, and software has significantly impacted and enhanced online learning and education. Universities globally are investing huge sums of money in online courses and degree programs. Some of the universities are offering these programs at all levels of study, anging from bachelor's to doctoral degrees. Nonetheless, despite the swift expansion, growth and adoption of online learning, there is a lack of understanding of the unique challenges faced by students in these disciplines. Consequently, this research aims to identify barriers to online learning in the built environment programme. A quantitative research approach was adopted, which informed the use of questionnaire survey administered to 115 postgraduate students from the departments Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Building, and Engineering. Descriptive statistics, including the calculation of mean and standard deviation, was used to analyze the collected data. Findings show that the most commonly agreed upon barriers include lack of time to study, financial constraints, and resistance to change. This study offers a valuable contribution by identifying these key factors; however, further research can explore the drivers to online learning among undergraduate students and professionals undertaking continuing education.