Considering the bets of distance learning in the Algerian universities : between the ministry's spur-of-the-moment decision , Teachers'challenges and learners' expectations.

Abstract

The current study investigates and assesses Distance Education in the Algerian Higher Education during the Covid-19 pandemic. It attempts to examine the main obstacles and challenges of distance education faced by both EFL teachers and students at the University of Ibn Khaldoun of Tiaret during the corona virus confinement. In order to test our hypothesis, we used the descriptive analytical method. A structured questionnaire was destined to 120 students at the section of English at Tiaret and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 teachers at the same section. The results of the collected data from the students‘ questionnaire and teachers‘ interview demonstrate that online/distance education is not more interesting or important than the ordinary learning and teaching. The inadequate use of ICT, insufficient e-learning infrastructure, financial constraints, lack of reliable internet and the technical skills on e-learning, e-content development and the inability to interact and communicate with teachers and fellow students are amongst the major barriers that hinder the implementation of distance education at the Algerian University. Therefore, decision-makers have to rethink the distance and hybrid learning environment for EFL learners in Algeria.