INFLUENCE OF ONLINE LEARNING ON THE ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF BUSINESS EDUCATION STUDENTS IN PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN ENUGU STATE NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study examined the influence of online learning on the academic performance of Business Education students in public universities in Enugu State, Nigeria. Four research questions was guided the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population of the study is 322. It consisted of Business Education students from public universities in Enugu State. Since the population was manageable, the entire population was studied using a census sampling technique. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire titled Influence of Online Learning on Academic Performance of Business Education Students in Public Universities (IOLAPBESPU) questionnaire, which was guided by four research questions. The instrument was face validated by three experts: two from Business Education and one from Measurement and Evaluation, all from Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu. The reliability of the instrument was established using Cronbach Alpha, which yielded an overall reliability coefficient of 0.85. Data were analyzed using mean scores and standard deviation. Major findings revealed that online learning positively influences student motivation, achievement, and engagement, although peer collaboration and class participation still require improvement. The study also identified poor internet access and limited instructor interaction as significant barriers. It concluded that while online learning enhances academic performance, it cannot fully replace traditional classroom methods. The study recommended that universities and policymakers invest in improved digital infrastructure and internet access to reduce technical barriers. Additionally, educators should be trained to incorporate engaging and interactive tools in online teaching to boost student participation and engagement.