Implication of Covid-19 Pandemic on TESL Student’s Academic Performance at Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia

Suriati binti Sulaiman, PhD

Abstract

COVID-19 has dramatically changed the way higher education was delivered at Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia (ITEM). The institution closure due to the pandemic has resulted in a rapid shift from face-to-face to online learning. This study aimed to investigate students’ academic performance at ITEM before and after the COVID-19 lockdown. The study essentially employed a quantitative approach based on archival research (AR) method. The investigation involved Bachelor of Teaching (PISMP) students, majoring in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) at 27 campuses. Sample was selected based on cluster random sampling. The academic achievement of two groups (220 face-to-face students and 220 online students) were collected. Comparison of scores, grade distribution, GPAs, and genders were made between the groups, who completed the same courses. Data were analysed descriptively and using inferential statistics of T-test, Chi-square, and Two-way ANOVA. The findings suggested that there is a significant difference in scores, grade distribution and GPAs between face-to-face and online students. The learning mode and gender were found to have a positive effect on students’ academic performance. After all, there is improvement in students’ academic performance at ITEM in online learning mode