Browsing by Author "Mutoka, Elisante"

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    Perceptions of distance learners towards the provision of higher education through open and distance learning mode: a study of the Open University of Tanzania,
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2014) Mutoka, Elisante
    The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of distance learners toward the provision of higher education through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) at the Open University of Tanzania (OUT). The study used a mixed methods approach (i.e., quantitative and qualitative analytical methods within the same framework) for the purpose of achieving complementarities. The study was conducted in Dar es Salaam based OUT regional centres namely; Ilala, Kinondoni and Temeke. Data collection tools were interviews, questionnaires and documentary review. Simple random sampling was used and the sample size for the study comprised seventy two (72) respondents. The findings of this study revealed that, students (distance learners) at OUT had positive perceptions toward the provision of higher education through ODL. They positively perceived support services provided, curriculum design, and the use of Information Technology resources. Furthermore, the study found that distance learners at OUT were facing challenges that inhibited them from learning at a distance successfully.The study recommends that, support of the Tanzanian government to this emerging useful educational option is very crucial. Government support should come in the forms of material and financial support, study scholarship awards to learners and more importantly is to formulate an explicit policy on ODL. Furthermore, other similar studies need to be conducted on a larger scale so as to allow grasping of findings at a wider scope.