Virtualization of University Education: The Impact of ICT-Mediated Learning Environment on Students' Performance

The increasing intake of students in tertiary institutions has resulted in large classes sizes in the universities in Ghana with the attendant reduction in quality in teaching and learning. This study was carried out to assess the impact of integrating ICT to teaching and learning in Universities on students' performance. This study adopted formative experimental approach using Moodle, an online learning platform to supplement the traditional face-face lecturing. This was carried out using seventy-five first year students on a communication skills course over two semesters. The Students' score in four learning outcomes were collected before and after the experiment. The data were quantitatively analyzed and compared to identify the impact of the ICT-mediated learning environment on students' performance. The results showed marked improvement in the students' performance in all aspects of communication skills. The lecturers of the course also confirmed improvements in students' performance, engagement and participation in the course compared to previous years.