Technological barriers and challenges in the use of ICT during the COVID-19 emergency remote learning

This study aimed to examine university students' insights and observations concerning the technological barriers and difficulties they encountered in the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) during the COVID-19 Emergency Remote Learning (ERL). This research employed a qualitative phenomenological approach as the method of inquiry. The study included eighty university students, who studied at the Faculty of Education at a state university in Jakarta, Indonesia. Data were collected through a two-week daily journal, the students' reflective essays and an online focus group discussion. The study revealed the technology barriers and challenges in using ICT included: Device issues, internet connectivity, technology costs, and lack of technology skills. Students also had problems with: Incompatible devices, sharing devices with other family members, unstable internet connection, restricted or unavailable internet access, data costs, purchasing new devices, new programs or apps, inexperience with ICT, lack of ICT skills, and inadequate learning platforms. The findings of this research are useful for improving students' learning experience and access during these challenging times. COVID-19 is a recent phenomenon; it is novel to research the case, and this research offers both practical and theoretical measures to help improve ERL in the future.