Journal of Computer Science
and Information Technology

Towards an Optimization Framework for E-Learning in Developing Countries: A Case of Private Universities in Kenya
Peter Namisiko, Catherine Munialo, Stephen Nyongesa

Abstract
E-learning systems have become popular in many Learning Institutions due to advancements in technology such as web 2.0 and Free Open Source Softwares. Worldwide, the E-Learning market has a growth rate of 35.6%, but failures exist. Little is known about why many users stop their online learning after their initial experience in institutions of Learning in Kenya. Previous research done under different task environments has suggested a variety of factors affecting user satisfaction with E-Learning. Increased numbers of users, services, education contents and resources have made E-Learning systems to face challenges of optimizing resource allocations, dealing with dynamic concurrency demands, handling rapid storage growth requirements and cost controlling. This paper sought out to determine the challenges facing the actual deployment and adoption of ELearning systems with a view to determining the optimal framework for deployment and adoption of E-learning systems by Private Universities in Kenya. The study employed quantitative research design to collect and analyse the data about the Challenges facing E-learning in Private Universities in Kenya. The study identified the following as the major challenges facing Deployment and Adoption of ELearning in Private Universities in Kenya: Availability of ICT infrastructure, ELearning Curriculum, Instructors’ competencies, Performance Expectancy, Perceived Usefulness of E-Learning by Students and Perceived Ease of Use of ELearning by students. It is hoped that the findings of this study will serve as a basis for educational institutions seeking cost effective alternatives to implement eLearning in developing countries.

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