ERIC Number: EJ1457649
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-2307-6267
Navigating the Power Outages: Impact and Coping Strategies of Students in a South African University during Loadshedding
Journal of Student Affairs in Africa, v12 n2 p131-142 2024
Loadshedding, the scheduled power outage implemented in South Africa, has significantly affected various sectors, including higher education institutions. This article explores the impact of loadshedding on students in a South African university, focusing on the difficulties they face, and the coping strategies employed. The study adopts a mixed methods approach, combining quantitative data from a structured survey and qualitative insights from discussion interviews. The findings highlight the disruptions caused by loadshedding, including missed lectures, limited access to resources, and challenges in submitting assignments. Power outages also negatively affect students' mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. The study emphasises the need for support measures to address the mental health needs of students during loadshedding. Various coping strategies are identified, such as time management, alternative power sources, offline study materials, group study sessions, and self-care practices. Understanding and analysing these coping strategies is essential in mitigating the impact of loadshedding on students' academic progress and well-being. The study contributes to the understanding of loadshedding's multifaceted impact on students, providing insights for developing support measures and creating a conducive learning environment. These findings can inform discussions in institutions, among policymakers and stakeholders to support students and address the challenges posed by loadshedding.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Higher Education, Energy Conservation, Depleted Resources, Energy Management, College Students, Student Attitudes, Coping, Mental Health, Access to Internet
University of Pretoria. Lynwood Avenue, Hatfield, Pretoria, 0002, Republic of South Africa. Tel: +27-12-420-4940; Fax: +27-12-420-4921; Web site: https://upjournals.up.ac.za/index.php/jsaa
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: South Africa
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A