Application of Multimodal Approaches to Remote Teaching and Learning in Rural South African Universities: A Case Study of COVID-19 Pandemic Responses

Abstract

This study explores effective approaches to implementing multimodal teaching and learning strategies to support students in higher education during the COVID-19 pandemic. Integrating multimodality into academic programs enhances the diversity of instructional methods and offers universities meaningful opportunities to leverage a range of educational technologies within interactive learning environments. Successful online education relies heavily on robust information and communication technology infrastructure. Transitioning to digital platforms not only supports continuity but also fosters students’ development of multimodal digital literacy.

The disruption caused by COVID-19 inspired the researcher to examine the role of multimodality in education. Adopting a qualitative research methodology, the study used purposeful sampling to select participants who are academics and students, from a university in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The aim was to explore their experiences and strategies in online teaching and learning. Data collection involved a focus-group interview with academics and six second-year students from various disciplines. A case study framework guided the research, with thematic analysis used to interpret the data. The findings highlight that, despite facing numerous challenges during the pandemic, both students and academics managed to sustain academic activities by utilizing digital tools such as Moodle, WhatsApp and other platforms. These media platforms played a vital role in ensuring the continuity of education, even reaching students in remote locations.

Keywords: COVID-19, Multimodal Approaches, Higher Education Institutions, Remote Teaching and Learning, Rural University

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-10-01

Publication date:September 30th 2025