Exploring Language Learners’ Experiences and Perceptions of Sakai Online Exams at the University of Ghana

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic brought major changes to teaching, learning, and 
assessment in higher education. At the University of Ghana, many courses were 
delivered online; hence, some assessments had to be conducted virtually. One major 
response by the university was the introduction of Sakai-based exams, which could 
be taken either on campus or remotely. This approach, which was used to support 
traditional in-person exams, has now become a long-term method of assessment. 
This study aims to explore how language learners experience and perceive Sakai
based exams. Using a mixed-method approach and a sample size of 387, we gathered 
data from language learners at the School of Languages, University of Ghana, to 
examine their opinions, challenges, and overall satisfaction with online exams on the 
Sakai platform. The findings reveal that, despite challenges reported by language 
learners, such as the absence of special characters, technical issues, and inadequate 
support systems, approximately 73% prefer Sakai-based exams to traditional exams. 
Based on the respondents’ experiences, this study makes the following 
recommendations: 1. There should be the inclusion of on-screen special characters 
for languages that require them. 2. Institutions of Higher Learning should have pre
recorded training sessions that tackle technical aspects of Sakai during exams. 3. 
There should be enhanced and real-time support systems during Sakai-based exams. 
The findings will help inform strategies to improve online assessment methods, 
ensuring they are fair, user-friendly and supportive of student success. These 
recommendations are valuable for both instructors and institutions as they continue 
to use digital tools in assessment.  
ISSN 2955-7887 
Kabio-Danlebo, et. al (2026)   
     
Keywords: Sakai, online assessment, language learner, students’ experiences, LMS 
Date of submission: 16th August 2025; Date of acceptance: 17th June 2026 
Date of publication: 29th July 2026 
url: https://mjdesjournal.com/index.php/mjdes/issue/view/4 
*Corresponding Author: *Daniel Kotey  
Citation: Kabio-Danlebo, F. Forfoe, M. A. & Kotey, D. (2026). Exploring language learners’ 
experiences and perceptions of Sakai online exams at the University of Ghana. 
Multidisciplinary Journal of Distance Education Studies, 2026, 4(SI), 52-73.