Students’ views on the Appropriate Mode of Teaching and Learning in Open and Distance Learning: Case of Matabeleland North Regional Campus of Zimbabwe Open University
Journal Title: Scholars Journal of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences - Year 2017, Vol 5, Issue 5
Abstract
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to explore the views of undergraduate students at Matabeleland North Regional Campus of the Zimbabwe Open University on the mode of teaching and learning that is appropriate to them considering their unique challenges. The traditional mode is characterised by use of the printed module while the modern mode by electronic learning (E-learning). Thus, students’ views were sought regarding the two modes or the blended mode characterised by both. The case study design was adopted and a population that comprised undergraduate students during the July-December 2016 academic semester was targeted. A sample of 20 (N=20) students was conveniently selected toparticipate in the study and Questionnaires were used as the research instruments to gather data.Based on the findings, the study concluded that the use of the blended mode of teaching and learning at Matabeleland North Regional Campus of the ZOU was preferable as it gave flexibility to students in using either the printed module or E-learning. Accordingly, the researchers recommended that for the sake of some disadvantaged students, the regional campus should retain the blended mode of teaching and learning to allow for option or choice between use of the print module or E-learning by students. It should embark on a fund-raising campaign to purchase more electronic resources for students, or at least secure loans for needy students to purchase smart phones, tablets and laptops which will enable them to access E-learning materials in consistence with the institution’s current generational stage of ODL delivery where MyVista has largely been popularized. In addition, notwithstanding the success that the campus like other regional campuses of ZOU have scored in training students in the utilization of electronic resources; the regional campus in question still needs to reach out to other students who missed the training for one reason or the other; in order that they do not remain disadvantaged due to lack of E-learning skills. Keywords: Open and distance learning, blended teaching and learning mode, printed module, electronic learning.
Authors and Affiliations
Douglas Gasva, Wisdom Moyo, Tawanda Dzama
Keywords
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