Influence of Virtual Learning Environments on Student Achievement for Sustainable Development

Abstract

Abstract As a result of the global pandemic, in-person lecture delivery method was interrupted and thus, the necessitated adoption of Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs) for the continuity of learning. However, considering that architectural education is hands-on and field-dependent, continuous design studio mentoring is expedient. This study therefore explored the potential of adopting VLE, especially in hands-on related disciplines and how this fosters student achievement in driving sustainable development. Descriptive statistics were employed to analyse quantitative data gathered from a randomly selected sample of architecture students representing three private universities in Nigeria. Findings from this research revealed that learning continued during the lockdown within the subject discipline. Notably, 86.6% of respondents utilized virtual meeting software like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Cisco WebEx, while 12.4% utilized Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as Moodle. Additionally, accessible facilities like comfortable study areas, a steady power supply, internet connectivity, and studio materials contributed to a successful VLE experience. This research strongly advocates for the continuation of hybrid learning in architectural education, combining physical and virtual modes to deliver enriching and memorable learning experiences to enhance education for sustainable development.