E-LEARNING IN KENYAN UNIVERSITIES: PRECONDITIONS FOR SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION

In recent years, there has been significant growth in the use of e-learning in Kenyan universities. However, despite this growth, universities in Kenya are still experiencing implementation challenges towards full utilization of e-learning. The purpose of this study was to investigate and analyze the preconditions necessary for successful implementation of e-learning in Kenyan universities. Data was collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews from 525 respondents comprising of university management, e-learning support staff, lecturers and students who are currently using e-learning in blended mode approach in three leading Kenyan universities. The findings reveal that successful implementation of e-learning was dependent on three categories of preconditions namely technological components, organizational components and pedagogical components. An implication of this study is that implementation of e-learning in Kenyan universities requires the blending of these three broad components necessary for successful implementation of e-learning. These findings are significant in that it will widen the frontiers of knowledge and provide more insights on implementation of e-learning in Kenyan universities.