This research study aims at investigating the perceptions of elderly learners in experiencing Zoom learning in an elder academy in Hong Kong under the effects of COVID.

Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used in this research. An online survey was conducted. The questionnaire was designed based on the conceptual framework of the Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model to assess students’ perceptions of their Zoom learning experience in the elder academy. Focus group interviews were also conducted after the online survey with the participation of selected students in offering more in-depth comments for analysis. SPSS software was used for analysing the data collected in the questionnaire survey. Content analysis was used to summarize the opinions collected in focus group interviews. Quantitative and qualitative data were combined in describing a comprehensive picture of the learning experience of elderly learners in the Zoom platform.

The results show that elderly learners had an overall positive perception of their Zoom learning journeys, particularly in the ‘input’ and ‘process’ stages of the IPO Model. However, their perception of the ‘learning outcomes achieved’ and ‘satisfaction’ level in the ‘output’ stage were relatively lower among the rest. Both were strongly affected by the factors of ‘interactions’ and ‘teaching approaches’ experienced by elderly learners in the Zoom platform. Although the youngest age group was found to have a more positive perception of Zoom learning, no respondents agreed that Zoom learning was preferable to the traditional face-to-face mode.

In view of Zoom as a short-term replacement option during the COVID-19 pandemic, recommendations have been provided at the end of this study which help inspire educators and institutions to improve the design of the learning process for elderly learners under the Zoom platform.