Challenges Facing Transformation in Open and Distance Learning Delivery Mode for Quality L earning .A C ase study of the Zimbabwe Open University
Journal Title: International Journal of Research in Social Sciences - Year 2017, Vol 7, Issue 11
Abstract
Open and Distance Learning (ODL) has transf ormed itself to become virtual with minimal or even no physical tutor student contact as academics create learning platforms, mark assignments and even supervise dissertations and thesis online. The Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) has undergone a lot of tra nsformation since becoming a fully pledged university in 1999. ZOU started with class contact (face to face with tutor) and use of modules but has made great strides towards full use of Electronic learning (e - learning) in line with contemporary global prac tices in ODL. The study used a survey design and was largely quantitative. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The study established that the majority of academics’ workload had increased as the transition phase was taking longer than expe cted. A lot of administrative work coupled with inadequate training to effectively use the ZOU My Vista software learning platform, pressure emanating from doctorate degree studies by most academics, the need to undertake research and publish research pape rs as well as implementing a demanding quality assurance system, were all straining academics. On a positive note, use of e - learning has expedited feedback and communication to students and it is also very convenient to them as they no longer have to trave l long distances or queue at regional campuses to see the Regional programme coordinators. The study recommended that more training on e - learning and availability of more accessible infrastructure namely computers and relevant software, would capacitate bo th academics and students. There is also an urgent need to bring Part time tutors on board who are the majority but currently left out of this e - learning drive , so that there is a strong learning culture at ZOU for improved service delivery.
Authors and Affiliations
Dominic Uzhenyu And Johannes Marisa
Keywords
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