In this study, 52 students in Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia used an e-learning system to study a chemistry topic. Students’ e-learning activities were recorded, and their perceptions and expectations regarding e-learning were determined via an open-ended questionnaire after the study. There were more students who perceived e-learning as a difficult system to use than those who found it suitable. Most students did only few quizzes and spent less time on e-learning materials. Low activity in e-learning was related to conventional classroom instruction that had been accustomed practice and to the difficulty of reading materials on the screen. This study found students’ expectations for elearning in terms of design, content, and learning atmosphere. First, it is important to design a readable website by choosing the best line length, line height, font style, font size, and font-background color combination. Next, the provision of instructional videos and pictures, comprehensive resources and worked-out examples would develop students’ self-confidence to learn through e-learning. Lastly, social features namely synchronous discussion forum and display of online users were noted to sustain students’ interest in e-learning. | Students’ activities in, perceptions of and expectations for elearning: A case in Indonesia
