his study aimed at analyzing the influence
of students’ E-learning capabilities on academic
engagement in UMMA University in Kenya. The
objectives of the study were: to assess the influence of
students’ capabilities toward E-learning device on
academic engagement in UMMA University in Kenya;
to examine the influence of students’ capabilities toward
E-learning platform on academic engagement in
UMMA University in Kenya and to evaluate the
influence of student preparedness on academic
engagement in UMMA University in Kenya. The study
is pegged on two theories: The constructivist learning
theory and the Engagement Theory. The study
employed a cross-sectional descriptive research design.
A total of 74 students were selected as respondents using
a multi-staged sampling technique. A self-administered
online questionnaire was used for data collection. The
questionnaire was piloted for reliability and validity test
prior to main data collection. Descriptive and
inferential statistical analysis was done using Statistical
Package for Social Science (SPSS) to run Structural
Equation Model (SEM) in testing the developed null
hypothesis and present data in form of tables, graphs
and text form. Based on the study findings, there is a
positive and significant influence the Student E-learning
Capabilities (E-learning Devices, E-learning System and
Student Preparedness) have on Academic Engagement.
The study recommends provision and accessibility of
affordable, dedicated institutional owned E-learning
devices such as tablets to learners with in-stalled
modules and applications to enhance the student
Academic Engagement by reducing the over reliance of
Smartphones. The study further recommends learning
institutions to adopt a one-point entry platform that
houses both E-learning and Student Management
Information System (SMIS) to reduce too many logins
which affects accessibility. Since majority of the
learners ninety seven percent rely on Sim-Card based
data bundles, the institution to sensitize them on
subsidized negotiated bundles with major
telecommunication companies in Kenya, this reduces
the cost of the bundles and limits to the E-learning and
some important internet access to academic sites.
Enlighten learners on the use of cheap and alternative
source of energy such as solar and power banks due to
unreliable electricity in some locations which has been
expressed as hindrance to E-learning accessibility. The
study suggests similar research with larger sample and
diverse learners from other campus, universities and
learning centers. The study can research on the effect of
technical support, Students’ Socio-economic status, and
family background on academic engagement as possible
part of the missing variance (twenty nine point five
percent) that can fully explain the Academic
Engagement.
Keywords : Academic Engagement, E-learning, E-learning Capabilities, Learning Management System (LMS), Virtual Classroom.