Teachers’ and students’ perceptions of online education in Bangladesh: challenges and solutions

This study examines key challenges in online education in Bangladesh through teacher and student perspectives, offering theory-based, context-specific solutions to improve equity, engagement, learning outcomes, and assessment integrity.
Teachers’ and students’ perceptions of online education in Bangladesh: challenges and solutions
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Teachers’ and students’ perceptions of online education in Bangladesh: challenges and solutions - Discover Education

Online education has become an essential part of modern learning, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially in developing countries like Bangladesh. While digital platforms offer flexibility, they also highlight significant hurdles, such as unequal access to technology, low student engagement, and worries about fair assessments. Most previous studies have examined these issues from either the student or teacher’s perspective, leaving a noticeable gap in understanding their shared experiences. This mixed-methods convergent parallel study seeks to address that gap by integrating quantitative survey data (N = 130) with qualitative interviews to investigate the challenges and potential solutions within Bangladesh’s online education system. The key findings reveal three significant areas of concern: (1) obstacles to digital accessibility, especially for rural students who struggle with internet connectivity and device availability; (2) pedagogical challenges, including low participation rates and insufficient faculty training; and (3) concerns regarding the integrity of assessments. The study offers practical solutions, such as improving infrastructure, developing faculty training programs, and implementing AI-enhanced assessment methods. These insights not only support local policy development but also enrich global discussions about digital education equity in developing economies.

 Article overview

As online education becomes a key part of higher education worldwide, countries like Bangladesh still face major challenges—such as weak internet access, limited teacher training, and concerns about fair assessments. This carefully designed mixed-methods study, based on data from 130 participants in both urban and semi-urban universities, explores these issues in depth.

Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Digital Equity Framework, and Constructivist Learning Theory, the study identifies three main problems: poor digital access (especially in rural areas), low teacher confidence with online teaching, and unreliable online exams. Over 70% of rural students struggle with internet connectivity, and many teachers feel unprepared to teach online.

To solve these challenges, the study offers practical and well-researched solutions: set up hybrid learning centers in low-connectivity areas, provide proper digital training for teachers, and use blended assessments that include projects and oral tests. These ideas can help improve both university practices and national education policies.

All in all, this study supports a more inclusive and lasting model for online education in Bangladesh and offers valuable guidance for other developing countries facing similar issues.

The Journey Behind the Publication

The successful publication of this article marks the culmination of a long, emotional, and deeply personal journey—one shaped by unwavering dedication, relentless perseverance, and countless silent battles. Behind this academic achievement lies a story that only Allah and I truly understand—a story woven with sleepless nights, heartfelt prayers, and sacrifices that often went unseen.

This research did not emerge effortlessly. It endured more than 20 rejections—each one a test of my resolve, each one leaving a mark, but never breaking the spirit to continue. There were moments of deep discouragement, of self-doubt, and of questioning whether the effort would ever be recognized. But every setback became a lesson, every delay a step closer to refinement.

Throughout this process, I sacrificed time with loved ones, moments of rest, and personal comfort, all to ensure that this study would one day contribute meaningfully to the field. I held on to hope, to faith, and to the belief that sincere effort is never in vain.

Today, as this article finally finds its rightful place in the academic world, I am overwhelmed with gratitude. This success is not just a publication—it is a testimony to resilience, to faith, and to the quiet strength it takes to keep moving forward when the path seems uncertain.

This remarkable journey, filled with struggle and solitude, has finally met its beautiful end—with success.

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This study explores real challenges in online education in Bangladesh. How do these issues compare with your experience? Share your insights and let’s discuss ways to make digital learning more inclusive.

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Language Education
Humanities and Social Sciences > Education > Didactics and Teaching Methodology > Language Education
Digital Education and Educational Technology
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