A Perspective in the Attitude towards the Quality of Education Delivered Through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) System

Authors

  • Tshepo T. J. Maphorisa Network Infrastructure/ Engineering Lecturer, Botho University, Gaborone Botswana
  • Patrick Sebalatlheng Head of Department-ICT Skills Development, Botho University, Gaborone, Botswana
  • Derrick Khupe Software Engineering Lecturer, Botho University, Gaborone Botswana

Keywords:

ODL, ICT, Learners, Open and Distance Learning, Computer-Mediated Communication.

Abstract

This paper reviews the available literature on how to reach Open and Distance Learning (ODL) system potential customers or learners and potential quality practitioners. In this review, the following categories will be discussed: Praxis to Attract Learners in ODL System, The Use of IT/ICT Tools with ODL, and Praxis to Train ODL Trainers. The use of computer-mediated communication (CMC) as an integral part of the design of distance taught courses raises interesting challenges to our thinking about course design and learner support. These have typically been conceptualized as two complementary but distinct systems in distance education, characterized by different practices often carried out by different groups of staff. Where CMC is designed as an integral part of the course, with collaborative learning as essential to assessment and study, this separation breaks down. The design of online activities is integral to both learner support and the course content, with new possibilities for open and distance learning as a result. Where the learning group itself is a resource for study and personal development, it also becomes feasible to orientate courses and programmes towards local teams and communities. Online tutors play a key role and need to develop 'the technology of conversation' and expertise in the design of activities, as part of their facilitator role. 

References

[1] B. Holmberg, The Feasibility of a Theory of Teaching for Distance Education and a Prepared Theory, Hagen: Fern Universitat, 1985.
[2] R. Bukaliya and A. K. Mubika, "Assessing Challenges in the Training of Secondary School Technical Subject Teachers through Open and Distance Learning," Journal of Educational and Instructional Studies in the World, vol. 2, no. 4, pp. 93-99, 2012.
[3] M. Gagne and M. Shepherd, "Distance Learning in Accounting: A Comparison between a Distance and a Traditional Graduate Accounting Class," T.H.E. Journal, vol. 28, no. 9, pp. 58-60, 2001.
[4] D. . O. Ojo and . F. . K. Olakulehin, "Attitudes and Perceptions of Students to Open and Distance Learning in Nigeria," The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, vol. 7, no. 1, 2006.
[5] T. J. Newby, D. A. Stepich, J. D. Lehman and J. D. Russell, Instructional Technology for Teaching and Learning: Designing Instruction, Integrating Computers, and using Media, Columbus, OH: Merrill, 1996.
[6] T. M. Duffy and D. H. Jonassen, "New Implications for Instructional Technology? Educational," Educational Technology, vol. 31, no. 3, pp. 7-12, 1991.
[7] D. D. Runes, Classics in Logic: Readings in Epistemology, Theory of Knowledge and Dialectics., New York: Philosophical Library, 1962.
[8] J. Riley, "Tutor2U," 12 04 2012. [Online]. Available: www.tutor2u.net/business/ict/intro_what_is_ict.htm. [Accessed 23 09 2012].
[9] S. Suri, "The Problematic Interface between Technology and the Socio-Cultural Context of Open and Distance Learning in India," University of Delhi, Delhi, 2004.
[10] P. R. Kondapalli, "Role of Open and Distance Education Institutions in Scaling up Quality Education for All," Andra University, Visakhapatnam, 2009.
[11] G. Dhanarajan and Y. Weimin, "www.col.org," 1999. [Online]. Available: http://www.col.org/resources/publications/Pages/detail.aspx?PID=381.
[12] M. Tam, "Constructivism, Instructional Design and Technology: Implications for Transforming of Distance Learning," Educational Technology and Society, vol. 3, no. 2, 2000.
[13] C. McLoughlin and T. Visser, "Quality e-learning: Are there Universal Indicators," in 16th ODLAA Biennial Forum Conference Proceedings, 'Sustaining Quality Learning Environments', Australia: Australian Catholic University, School of Education, 2003.
[14] T. S. Modesto and D. R. Tau, Introducing Distance Education, Vancouver: Commonwealth of Learning, 2009.
[15] M. Thorpe, "Rethinking Learner Support: The Challenge of Collaborative Online Learning," The Journal of Open Distance and e-Learning, vol. 17, no. 2, pp. 105-119, 2002.
[16] WiseGeek, "WiseGeek," 2012. [Online]. Available: http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-information-technology.htm. [Accessed 12 04 2012].
[17] A. Woodley, Doing Educational Research and Evaluation in ODL, London: Commonwealth of Learning, 2004.

Downloads

Published

2017-07-16

How to Cite

T. J. Maphorisa, T., Sebalatlheng, P., & Khupe, D. (2017). A Perspective in the Attitude towards the Quality of Education Delivered Through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) System. American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences, 33(1), 217–229. Retrieved from https://asrjetsjournal.org/index.php/American_Scientific_Journal/article/view/2899

Issue

Section

Articles