Current state and prospects of distance learning development in Ukraine

Abstract

The article presents a thorough literature review and highlights the main stages in the development of distance learning in Ukraine. Moreover, the paper suggests the periodization of distance learning. Research data on distance learning peculiarities in Ukraine during and before the pandemic make it possible to outline the main problems faced by higher education institutions’ (HEIs) teachers and students. Therefore, the study emphasizes common problems, namely hardware/software issues, poor Internet connectivity, lack of students’ self-discipline and self-organization, absence of live communication, insufficient digital literacy skills etc. The paper analyzes the benefits of MOOCs that aim at digital competence development. It presents the results of students’ survey on qualitative changes in distance learning organization in 2020–2021 academic year compared to 2019–2020 academic year. The results prove that in current academic year, distance learning is better organized due to a sufficient structure of distance learning courses, the use of one platform for the whole educational institution, higher teachers’ digital competence, the use of various resources etc.