Open and Distance Learning (ODL) as a sustainable development tool for disability inclusion: Reflections from the Zimbabwe Open University
Journal Title: Scholars Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences - Year 2014, Vol 2, Issue 6
Abstract
Open and distance learning (ODL) is considered one of the most significant tool for sustainable development in the information age of advanced learning. This research study gave a critical eye on the various ways ODL can be used to improve the inclusion of people with disabilities in ODL programmes. Thus the aim of the paper was to establish the coalition between ODL and sustainable development for the educational inclusion and strengthening of disabled communities. The study explored the implementation of ODL methodologies that are utilised to include people with disabilities at the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU). The qualitative approach guided the study. In-depth face to face interviews were used to collect data from fifteen current and former disabled students of the Zimbabwe Open University. Data was also collected from the ten staff members from the department of student affairs and the faculty of applied social sciences at Zimbabwe Open University. The results showed that the Zimbabwe Open University is including learners with disabilities in its programmes and is currently in the process of designing an inclusive education policy. It was also observed that ZOU is using methods like flexible fees payment modes, provision of loans, printing modules in braille, e-library and training of sign language to attract learners with disabilities in its programmes. Various departments are also in the process of offering compulsory disability modules. The university, through its student affairs department is in the process of establishing centres of disability excellence in the ten regional centres . The results also showed that while ODL improve accessibility, the issue of education for sustainable development among people with disabilities remains an issue. Most subjects offered are academic oriented as such learners with disabilities lack practical skills essential for self employment in an economy where unemployment is around 80%. Other possible threats to inclusive education and education for sustainable development raised were high fees, lack of disability friendly software like jaws and guided access. The issue of transition into employment remains a thorny issue. Recommendations made include the need to introduce more practical subjects and to develop more disability friendly software. The need to have disability friendly website like the talking website with visual alerts was also suggested. Keywords: Zimbabwe Open University, distance learning, disabilities
Authors and Affiliations
Alfred C. Ncube, Lincoln Hlatywayo
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP380874
- DOI -
- Views 61
- Downloads 0
Research on the Path of the Citizenization of Migrant Workers in the Process of New Urbanization
Abstract: At present, China is actively promoting the people-centered new urbanization, and advancing the path of the citizenization of migrant workers is the primary task of promoting urbanization. It has great signific...
Buddhism, Mindfulness Based Intervention and the Eclectic Parenting Style Construct in Sri Lankan Female Undergraduates
Literature states that Authoritative parenting style has a significant role in predicting high quality academic achievement. The hypothesis of this study, while recognizing the positive correlation between authoritative...
Children’s Roles and Representation in Mohamed Suleiman Mohamed’s Novels (Kiu And Nyota Ya Rehema) And Euphrase Kezilahabi’s (Rosa Mistika And Kichwa Maji)
In life, literature is very important due the roles that it plays. Literature entertains, educates, warns, corrects and emphasizes on good morals. This presentation highlights the children’s roles in the novels written b...
Identity in Contemporary Architecture of Iran
Architecture spite of the differences of land which has effect on it form has intrinsic, dynamic and gradual features which is called identity. Lexicology of identity directs us to human, architecture and its discriminat...
Identification of Hypomanic Smartness V/S Passiveness (UI 18) In T- Data
The present study was mainly designed to identify Cattelian Personality Factor of Hypomaic Smartness Vs Passiveness (UI-18) in T-data measures and its overlap with Q-data factor. To realize the main objective, a sample o...