Case Study:

"The Impact of E$-$Learning Platforms on Academic Performance in Kenyan Universities"

In recent years, many universities in Kenya have adopted e$-$learning platforms as part of their educational framework. This transition aims to improve access to educational resources, enhance student engagement, and ultimately, boost academic performance. The University of Nairobi, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and Maseno University have led this transition. A research team was tasked with investigating how adopting e$-$learning platforms has impacted student academic performance, particularly focusing on the first$-$year students most affected by the transition to online learning.

The team collected data from students, lecturers, and university administrators. The research involved a mixed$-$method approach, with surveys for students and interviews with faculty members. Secondary data was also collected from the universities$$ academic performance records over the past five years. The data was analyzed using statistical software $($SPSS$),$ and key findings showed improved academic performance among students using the e$-$learning platforms. However, challenges such as poor internet access and lack of student motivation were also identified.

The research team then wrote a detailed report that discussed the findings, literature review, data collection methods, and analysis, along with recommendations for improving the use of e$-$learning platforms in Kenyan universities.

Questions $(30$ Marks$)$

define the research problem in this case study.

What type of research methodology $($qualitative$,$ quantitative, or mixed$-$method$)$ was employed in this study? Justify the choice of this research methodology for investigating the impact of e$-$learning platforms on academic performance.

Identify the data types $($primary and secondary$)$ used in this case study. Discuss the advantages and limitations of using primary and secondary data in this research.

How was computer software like SPSS used in this research? Discuss the importance of computer applications in data processing and analysis for this study.

Based on this case study, what essential components should be included in the research report?

Why is it crucial to include a thorough literature review and properly cite sources in the report?