Functionality of Web-Based E-Learning Systems in Kenyan Universities

In Kenya, Universities are increasingly using e-learning systems to enhance content delivery and user interaction in a cost-effective manner. Against the backdrop of increasing acceptance of the systems in the universities, there was need of assessing the functionality of e-learning systems adopted by the universities. The paper focused on evaluating the functionality of web-based e-learning systems implemented in Kenyan Universities; drawing from ISO/IEC 9126 model that focuses on systems suitability, accurateness, interoperability, compliance and security. The study was conducted in two Kenyan universities; a public university, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), and a private university, Mount Kenya University (MKU). The study used a descriptive survey design utilizing quantitative data. Collection of data was done using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Respondents were sampled using Simple random sampling. 269 respondents were recruited from a target population of 900 drawn from both universities. Evaluation of E-learning systems indicated that existing systems had certain limitations that negatively affect system functionality elements. The functionality was also influenced by poor ICT infrastructure in the learning institution as well as type and organization of the content published in the systems. The study concludes that functionality of e-learning systems is influenced by interactivity between students and instructors, system security, content delivery and assessment and perceived usefulness of the system. Adoption of an appropriate System Functionality Evaluation Model to identify system weaknesses and improvement of ICT infrastructure in learning institutions will help to improve functionality of the e-learning systems in Kenyan universities.