Technological Challenges of an Engineering Department Amidst Pandemic

Abstract

Technology management is more important than ever due to the quick development of technology across all fields of specialization. The study is grounded on the challenges faced by lecturers and students of the engineering department and highlighted the mechanisms used in finding the solutions. The study made use of a qualitative research design to gather in-depth insights about the problem and generate new ideas for research. The respondents of the study include the department head and lecturers of the department. The study used maxQDA software in the analysis of responses to develop a model based on the existing practices of an engineering division. This model includes mechanisms to address the technological challenges like regular meetings and collaborative meetings with teachers and students. These practices address the technological challenges on management, teaching, and learning. The school must embody key characteristics to face all challenges and must start with collaboration among the teachers and students before extruding to collaboration with external stakeholders like alumni and local government units. This study further showed the effect of poor internet connectivity, thus school administrators should look into the need providing internet connection in the campus for teachers needs in providing effective instructions. The results further showed the challenge in adapting new technologies like software and online platform intended for learning of students. The head of the division must be supportive of the teaching needs of the staff which results in good relations and collaboration of subordinates and students. Lastly, lecturers must be compassionate to teaching to address the learning needs of students and consider methods like video clips, tutorial sessions, and consultation.