Student Engagement and Challenges in Web 2.0-Based Learning: Evidence from Higher Education in Dhaka

Bipul Kumar Sarker; Debobrota Kumar Sarker

doi:10.56741/IISTR.jpes.00950

Authors

Bipul Kumar Sarker
t51316@nu.ac.bd
Habibullah Bahar College https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5482-8423
Debobrota Kumar Sarker South Asia Research & Corporate Advisory Ltd https://orcid.org/0009-0007-0028-3572

Keywords:

Bangladesh, Challenges, Digital Literacy, Student Engagement, Web 2.0 Tools

Abstract

The COVID-19 epidemic transformed education, prompting a rise in the adoption of Web 2.0 tools in Dhaka's colleges to improve digital literacy, teacher-student connection, and student engagement. A quantitative approach was used, with 200 students from five institutions in Dhaka city receiving structured questionnaires. The learning engagement is the outcome variable in this study, and the predictor factors are academic year, gender (1=male, 2=female), web 2.0 usage (1=yes, 0=no), and web 2.0 tools literacy. The influence of learning engagement was assessed using SPSS and Microsoft Excel, which included regression analysis, t-tests, ANOVA, and descriptive statistics. Findings showed that 78% of students said they were more involved, and 85% said that Google Docs and Padlet had helped them collaborate better. However, issues including inadequate teacher preparation (50%) and restricted access to technology (48%), as well as distractions (56%), were noted. According to regression analysis, digital literacy and Web 2.0 usage were significant predictors of learner engagement (R2 = 0.74). By concentrating on a developing nation, this study offers insights into the acceptance and obstacles of Web 2.0 tools in environments with limited resources, which makes it novel. The study concludes that although Web 2.0 technologies improve educational opportunities, their full potential requires filling infrastructural deficiencies, educating teachers, and encouraging digital literacy. These findings provide valuable suggestions for educators and policymakers and add to the conversation on technology-integrated education.

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Author Biographies

Bipul Kumar Sarker, Habibullah Bahar College

is the Senior Data Analyst at SouthAsia Research & Corporate Advisory Ltd. (SRCA), where he began his career in 2014 as a Junior Data Analyst and currently serves on a project basis. With over 10 years of experience in M&A advisory, corporate restructuring, joint ventures, business valuation, market research, and startup funding, he brings extensive expertise to his role. He earned an MSc in Statistics from the University of Dhaka. Mr. Sarker has significantly contributed to data-driven business analysis at SRCA, including survey design, market research, and statistical analysis using specialized software. A dedicated professional, he is known for meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality results with attention to detail. He has published 16 research articles and reviewed around 45 academic papers. Since 2015, he has also served as a faculty member in the Department of BBA Professional at Habibullah Bahar College, combining his passion for teaching with analytical excellence. (email: t51316@nu.ac.bd).

Debobrota Kumar Sarker, South Asia Research & Corporate Advisory Ltd

is an accomplished Investment Advisor with over 25 years of experience in corporate advisory and investment banking across Bangladesh and global markets. As Managing Director & CEO of SouthAsia Research & Corporate Advisory Ltd (SRCA), he has led strategic initiatives in capital raising and financial advisory across diverse sectors. He holds an MBA and BBA in Accounting & Information Systems from the University of Dhaka, along with certifications from the Corporate Finance Institute (CFI), Canada, including FMVA®, CMSA®, CBCA®, and FPWMP®, with specializations in Investment Banking, M&A Advisory, and ESG. His research interests include finance, banking, capital markets, corporate governance, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and education system development. His work has been published in books, academic journals, and conference proceedings at both national and international levels. (email: deb2050@gmail.com).

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