Digitalization of learning: A comparative study of university learners' and lecturers' perceptions and experiences on distance education: A Hakkari University case

In this study, we aimed to examine distance education, considered a reflection of digitalization in learning, from the perspective of learners and lecturers at a state university in Turkey. Although most previous studies focused on students' and lecturers' views separately, few studies have compared and examined both sides' experiences and perceptions of distance education. Therefore, this mixed-method comparative case study is intended to be presented to the university as a report, thus providing online program managers and faculty advisers with a deeper understanding of the essential aspects that impact the efficiency of the distant education process. The research sample consists of 1373 students and 112 lecturers at Hakkari University. An online 'Satisfaction Survey' composed of 18 questions was used to obtain both quantitative and qualitative data in this study. The IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0 program was utilized to analyze the quantitative data. As for the qualitative data, thematic analysis with an inductive approach was applied to determine the related themes. The results revealed statistically significant differences between the technical equipment used by the learners and lecturers, the ways of accessing the internet, the rates of participation and attendance in the courses, and the satisfaction rates with the course materials and assessment methods. Additionally, an in-depth examination of the qualitative data showed that the rate of students experiencing technical, economic, and familial difficulties was higher than the lecturers. Moreover, some motivational issues were observed among the participants. The researcher proposes technical, pedagogical, communicative, and assessment and curriculum-related implications based on the findings. Recommendations for further research based on the limitations are included at the end of the study.