CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of Study
The rapid advancement of technology has transformed various sectors, including education.
Online learning platforms have emerged as vital tools for delivering education, especially in the
wake of global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. These platforms facilitate remote
learning, allowing students to access educational resources from anywhere in the world. PHP
(Hypertext Preprocessor) and MySQL (Structured Query Language) are widely used
technologies for developing dynamic web applications, making them ideal for creating online
learning websites. This study aims to explore the design and implementation of an online
learning website using these technologies, focusing on user experience, functionality, and
scalability. Education is the process of bringing about a relatively permanent change in human
behavior. It is the main instrument used to preserve, maintain and upgrade people`s culture,
norms and values. In any society, education is a veritable tool for determining technological
advancement and passing on to the new generations, the existing knowledge of the physical
environment. Education also serves as platform for introducing individuals to any organization,
giving skills for performing daily jobs, leisure as well as inculcating sound morals in the people
for their own benefit and that of the society. In summary, education is the platform on which
younger generation understand the past heritage as well as participate and contribute
meaningfully to the growth and development of the society.
With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, online teaching and remote work have been
adopted worldwide from December 2019 to March 2023. During this time, the online education
platform and online conferences have become the primary means of communication. These
platforms offer flexibility, contactless interaction, and the ability to study and work anytime and
anywhere. They have become essential tools for workers and students. Based on user statistics
from Tencent Conference and Tencent Classroom, over the past three years, 400 million users
have utilized the platform for learning, and it is estimated that over 3 billion users have engaged
in online learning or online meetings daily worldwide. Online education has become a prevailing
trend and serves as a valuable supplement to traditional education (Wang, Chen, and Hong,
2018).
Conventionally, education has been practiced across the world in segregated buildings by
carefully regimented and standardized classes of students and teachers. This has a consequential
effect on both the teacher and the learner. For example, education is implicitly restricted only to
those who could be in the classroom and follow the teacher rigidly with the pace by which he
presents his lectures. Population explosion and mass educational system in every region of the
world brought greater challenges to this method of education. For instance, there is problem of
inadequate number of human and material resources to cater for the education of the large
population. The population of school age citizen in most places has grown tremendously to the
extent that only a small percentage can be offered admission. The student – lecturer and student-
classroom ratios have grown to the extent that teaching and learning in the classroom have been
less effective. The field of education therefore provides the most fascinating application of
computing system, which has consequently attracted considerable attention from educationists
and policy makers since the late 1960s when computers were introduced into classrooms.
Various information technologies have been applied in learning and teaching, such as Computer
Aided Instruction, (CAI), Computer Aided Learning (CAL), Research Packages, Project
Monitoring, and Computerized Libraries and so on. As a result of technological advancement in
multimedia technology, computer networks and the Internet, computers are now being applied in
distance learning premised on on-line and real time teaching and instruction (Akinyokun, 2003).
Nowadays, with the rapid development of economic globalization, many scientific and
technological innovations and educational ideas that developed in the knowledge and economy
era enjoy popular support from people (Zhao and Wu, 2019). However, the subject of education
and study has been developed with the technological development and on-campus recruitment.
In comparison with the traditional education mode and methods, modern education has
developed as the Internet of PC/mobile terminal and VR changed (Du, 2012). In the past 10
years when the Mobile Internet highly progressed, the online education has been gradually
introduced into every aspect of our life by the Mobile Internet, big data and cloud platform, the
online education platform then emerges at the digital, intelligent and networked environment
which is mainly progressed by ―Internet + Education (Hommel, 2012). Through the sound
progress of the Internet, the traditional online education platform gradually becomes an open,
MOOC-pattern (Massive Open Online Courses) and live-pattern platform which is supported by
multiple operation patterns while the technology regurgitate the business, urging the online
education platform bring a better study experience for the users in curriculum content, study
resources and big data analysis based on basic functions (Huo, Bian, and Xiaoqing, 2018,
Mortal SYPLS, 2015). In fact, given the rapid progress of Mobile Internet, the touchscreen-
designed mobile devices are not suitable for the traditional online education platform on PC
terminal. The reasons mainly include the following aspects: the lower matching of screens, the
worse compatibility of documents, the smaller storage of mobile devices, and the users’
dissatisfaction with operations. The above reasons bring many inconveniences for the users, and
then Bootstrap appears and brings perfect compatibility of PC terminals and mobile terminals.
The appearance of the bootstrap brings perfect compatibility between PC terminals and mobile
terminals, greatly reducing development costs, as it only requires one-time development and
lifelong use (Pan, 2017; Piña, 2012).
There are readily available Learning Management System (LMS) educational platforms on the
market. Quick implementation, technical support, and scalability are some of the advantages of
the off-the-shelf LMS. However, commercially available LMS can be expensive. Moreover,
open-source LMS may be free but may not address the online needs of schools, and the open-
source code does not carry a guarantee or warranty. Additionally, the issue of security and data
privacy arises with the use of readily available LMS. One way to solve this problem is to build
an in-house LMS. Toward this goal, this study was conceived. The mission of the system is to
deliver every lesson with care. We aspire to have teachers ignite students’ interest in learning
through care and passion, encouraging them to apply what they have learned. The essence of the
platform lies in meticulously ensuring the quality of the courses (Yang and Rui, 2018).
1.2 Statement of Problem
1.2.1. Limited Accessibility and Flexibility
Traditional educational systems often impose geographical and temporal constraints that hinder
students' ability to access learning materials and participate in courses. For instance, students in
remote areas may have limited access to educational institutions, while those with full-time jobs
may struggle to attend classes at fixed times. An online learning website aims to eliminate these
barriers by providing a platform that is accessible from anywhere and at any time. However,
many existing systems fall short in delivering true accessibility and flexibility.
Mobile Compatibility: With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, online learning
platforms need to be mobile-friendly. Many current systems do not offer responsive designs,
making it difficult for users to navigate and engage with content on smaller screens.
User-Friendly Interfaces: A complex interface can prevent users from effectively utilizing the
platform. Simple and neat interfaces are crucial for enhancing user experience.
1.2.2. Inefficient User Management
Effective user management is vital for maintaining a secure and organized online learning
environment. Many existing platforms struggle with the complexities of managing different user
roles, such as students, instructors, and administrators.
Role-Based Access Control: Inadequate systems may not properly enforce role-based access,
leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information or restricted access to necessary
resources. For example, students might gain access to administrative tools, or instructors
might be unable to view student submissions.
User Registration and Authentication: The registration process must be streamlined to ensure
that users can easily create accounts and log in securely. Many systems lack robust
authentication mechanisms, making them vulnerable to unauthorized access.
1.2.3. Inadequate Course Management Features
Course management is a critical component of online learning systems. Current platforms often
lack comprehensive tools for course creation, content delivery, and assessment. This includes
features for uploading multimedia content, creating quizzes and assignments, and tracking
student progress. Without these functionalities, instructors may find it challenging to deliver
engaging and effective courses.
Content Delivery: Instructors need the ability to upload various types of multimedia content,
such as videos, PDFs, and interactive elements. Current systems may limit file types or sizes,
hindering content richness.
Assessment Tools: The absence of features for creating quizzes, assignments, and exams can
impede instructors' ability to evaluate student performance effectively, also automated
grading systems can save time and provide immediate feedback to students.
Progress Tracking: Instructors require tools to monitor student engagement and progress.
Without analytics and reporting features, it becomes challenging to identify students who
may be struggling or to assess the effectiveness of course materials.
1.2.4. Poor Communication and Collaboration Tools
Effective communication between students and instructors is essential for successful online
learning. Many existing platforms do not provide adequate tools for real-time communication,
such as chat modules, forums, or video conferencing capabilities. This can lead to a lack of
interaction and engagement, which are vital for a collaborative learning environment.
Lack of Real-Time Communication: Many systems do not offer integrated chat modules or
forums, which can lead to feelings of isolation among students. Real-time communication
tools, such as video conferencing, are crucial for facilitating discussions and collaborative
learning.
Feedback Mechanisms: Instructors need efficient ways to provide feedback on assignments
and engage with students. Without proper communication tools, students may feel
disconnected and less motivated to participate.
1.2.5. Security and Data Privacy Concerns
With the increasing reliance on online platforms for education, security and data privacy have
become paramount. Many online learning systems are vulnerable to cyber threats, including data
breaches and unauthorized access. Ensuring the security of user data and maintaining privacy is a
significant challenge that must be addressed in the design and implementation of an online
learning website.
Cyber Threats: Many online learning systems are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, including data
breaches and unauthorized access, so protecting sensitive information such as student record,
and payment details should be top priority.
Compliance with Regulations: Educational institutions must comply with various data
protection regulations, such as GDPR or FERPA. Ensure that the online learning platform
adheres to all regulations.
1.2.6. Scalability Issues
As the number of users’ increases, many online learning platforms face scalability challenges.
Systems built without considering scalability may experience performance degradation, leading
to slow loading times and a poor user experience. It is essential to design a system that can
efficiently handle a growing number of users and courses.
Performance Degradation: If a system is not designed with scalability in mind, it may
experience slow loading times and reduced performance as user numbers grow. This can lead
to low performance and user dissatisfaction.
Resource Management: To effectively manage server resources it is essential to
accommodate fluctuating user loads. Ensure proper infrastructure or the platform may
struggle to maintain stable performance during peak usage times.
1.2.7 Integration with Existing Educational Tools
Many educational institutions use various tools and software for managing courses, assessments,
and student data. An effective online learning website should integrate seamlessly with these
existing systems to provide a cohesive learning experience. However, many current platforms
lack the capability to integrate with third-party tools, limiting their functionality.
Lack of Interoperability: An effective online learning website should seamlessly integrate
with existing systems, such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), Student Information
Systems (SIS), and third-party educational tools. However, many current platforms lack the
capability to integrate with these tools, limiting their functionality.
Data Synchronization: Ensuring that data is consistently synchronized across different
systems is crucial for maintaining accurate records and providing a cohesive learning
experience. Without proper integration, discrepancies in data can arise, leading to confusion
and inefficiencies.
1.3 Aim of Study
The main focus of this study is to design and implement an online learning website using PHP
and MySQL, addressing the challenges faced by existing systems and enhancing the overall
learning experience. To achieve this aim, the following objectives are propounded
1.4 Objectives of Study
To Implement a Comprehensive User Management System
The study aims to create a robust user management system that effectively handles different user
roles, including students, instructors, and administrators. This system will ensure that users have
appropriate access to resources based on their roles, thereby enhancing security and streamlining
administrative tasks.
To Provide Advanced Course Management Features
Another key objective is to implement comprehensive course management functionalities that
allow instructors to create, manage, and deliver courses effectively. This includes features for
uploading multimedia content, designing quizzes and assignments, and tracking of students’
progress.
To Ensure Data Security and Privacy
With the increasing reliance on online platforms for education, ensuring the security and privacy
of user data is paramount. This study aims to implement robust security measures, including data
encryption, secure authentication protocols, and regular security audits.
To Address Scalability and Performance
As the number of users on the platform grows, scalability becomes a critical concern. The
objective of this study is to design the online learning website with scalability in mind, ensuring
that it can efficiently handle an increasing number of users and courses without any issues.
1.5 Scope of the Study
The primary users of the online learning website will include students, instructors, and
administrative staff from Dennis Osadebay University. The platform will be designed to cater to
the diverse needs of these groups, ensuring that each user can effectively navigate and utilize the
system for their specific purposes.
1.6 Limitations of the Study
The implementation of online learning websites in Nigeria has the potential to transform
education by increasing accessibility and flexibility. However, several limitations hinder the
effectiveness and widespread adoption of these platforms. Below are some of the key limitations:
I. Limited Internet Connectivity
One of the most significant challenges facing online learning in Nigeria is the inconsistent and
often poor internet connectivity. Many regions, especially rural areas, lack reliable access to
high-speed internet, which is essential for effective online learning. This limitation can lead to
interruptions during classes, difficulty in accessing course materials, and an overall frustrating
experience for users.
II. Digital Literacy Gaps
The varying levels of digital literacy among students and educators pose a significant barrier to
the effective use of online learning platforms. Many students, particularly those from
disadvantaged backgrounds, may not have the necessary skills to navigate online learning
environments effectively.
III. Inadequate Infrastructure
The lack of adequate technological infrastructure in many Nigerian educational institutions limits
the effectiveness of online learning. Many schools and universities do not have the necessary
hardware, such as computers and projectors, or software to support online education. This
inadequacy can hinder the implementation of comprehensive online learning programs.
IV. High Costs of Technology
The cost of acquiring and maintaining the technology required for online learning can be
prohibitive for many institutions and students. This includes expenses related to purchasing
computers, software licenses, and internet subscriptions. For students from low-income families,
these costs can be a significant barrier to accessing online education.
V. Quality of Course Content
The quality of course content available on online learning platforms can vary significantly. Some
institutions may not have the resources or expertise to develop high-quality, engaging, and
relevant online courses. This inconsistency can lead to a subpar learning experience for students,
diminishing the overall effectiveness of online education (Afolabi 2016).
VI. Assessment Challenges
Conducting assessments in an online environment presents unique challenges, including issues
related to academic integrity and the reliability of online examinations. Ensuring that
assessments are fair and accurately reflect students' knowledge and skills can be difficult without
proper monitoring and proctoring systems in place.
VII. Cultural Resistance
There may be cultural resistance to online learning in some Nigerian communities, where
traditional face-to-face education is highly valued. This resistance can stem from a lack of
understanding of the benefits of online education or skepticism about its effectiveness compared
to conventional teaching methods (Ololube, 2013).
VIII. Regulatory and Policy Issues
The regulatory environment for online education in Nigeria is still evolving. There may be a lack
of clear policies and guidelines governing the operation of online learning platforms, which can
lead to inconsistencies in quality and accountability. This uncertainty can deter institutions from
fully committing to online education initiatives. Some local institution do not allow online
learning because of their policies and curriculum, they feel the traditional method is the best.
1.7 Definition of Terms
1. Online Learning: A method of education that takes place over the internet, allowing students
to access course materials, participate in discussions, and complete assignments remotely
2. E-Learning: A broader term that encompasses all forms of electronically supported learning
and teaching, including online courses, virtual classrooms, and digital resources.
3. Learning Management System (LMS): A software application or platform that facilitates the
administration, documentation, tracking, reporting, and delivery of educational courses or
training programs.
4. Digital Literacy: The ability to effectively and critically navigate, evaluate, and create
information using a range of digital technologies.
5. Bandwidth: The maximum rate of data transfer across a network, which affects the speed and
quality of internet connectivity for online learning.
6. User Interface (UI): The space where interactions between humans and machines occur,
focusing on the design and layout of the online learning platform to enhance user experience.
7. Course Management: The process of planning, organizing, and delivering educational
content, including the creation of course materials, assignments, and assessments.
8. Assessment: The process of evaluating student learning, skills, and performance through
various methods, including quizzes, exams, and assignments.
9. Multimedia: The use of various forms of content, such as text, audio, images, animations,
and video, to enhance the learning experience in online courses.
10. Feedback Mechanism: Tools or processes that allow students to receive evaluations and
comments on their performance, helping them to improve and engage with the learning
material.
11. Accessibility: The design of online learning platforms to ensure that all users, including those
with disabilities, can access and benefit from educational resources.
12. Data Privacy: The protection of personal information collected from users of online learning
platforms, ensuring compliance with regulations and safeguarding against unauthorized
access.
13. Scalability: The capability of an online learning platform to handle a growing number of
users and courses without compromising performance.
14. Technical Support: Assistance provided to users of online learning platforms to resolve
issues related to technology, software, or course access.
15. Virtual Classroom: An online space where students and instructors can interact in real-time,
often equipped with tools for video conferencing, screen sharing, and collaborative activities.
16. Content Delivery: The method by which educational materials are distributed to students,
including text, video, and interactive elements.
