Challenges of Implementing the Student-Centered Learning Approach at Koya University

Abstract

The objective of this study is to identify the primary obstacles faced by educators in implementing the student-centered approach at Koya University, particularly within the Social and Human Sciences departments, where the Bologna Process has been in use for the past two years. The study examines various factors that directly influence the effectiveness of this pedagogical method. The research was conducted through Semi-Structured interview with a specific sample of 20 Lecturers who has completed pedagogical training and possess experience in utilizing the student-centered approach at Koya University. The population consists of lecturers from Koya University, with focusing on the Humanities and Social Sciences departments for the academic years 2023 and 2024. The findings indicate that the primary challenges include limited time, insufficient resources, and a significant number of students unfamiliar with the student-centered approach. This unfamiliarity creates an additional barrier in transitioning from a teacher-centered to a student-centered model of instruction. Furthermore, the lack of collaboration among educators, the inconsistency in teaching methods, and the weak linkage between the university and the community are identified as critical impediments to effective student-centered learning.