Learner Support Gaps in Distance Learning: The Case of Institute for Distance Education and e-Learning, University of Education, Winneb
Learner Support Gaps in Distance Learning: The Case of Institute for Distance Education and e-Learning, University of Education, Winneb
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Date
2019
Authors
Owusu-Osei, Benedict
Dampson Dandy, George
Owusu-Mensah, Francis
Kwakye Apau, Stephen
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to measure the extent to which the learner support needs
of distance education learners in the Institute of Distance Education and e-Learning
(IDeL) in the University of Education, Winneba were met. The explanatory sequential
design under the mixed method approach was adopted. The study sampled 623
students randomly to respond to a questionnaire adapted from Ozoglu (2009). A
qualitative data was (subsequently) collected through a focus group discussion with 18
(eighteen) students and an interview with the Registrar of IDeL. The interview data was
analyzed thematically. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the
quantitative data. The study revealed that the support needs of the learners were
largely unmet. A need gap analysis revealed a huge difference in terms of e-learning
portals, educational software produced by IDeL, communication with course
instructors, face- to face academic counseling (tutoring), counselling services to
promote students’ self-confidence and help with the admission/registration process.
The study further revealed that though sex, age and certificate enrolled for all might
predict distance leaners’ support needs, it was age that was statistically significant. This
study, therefore, recommends that IDeL expand its support services to match the specific
needs of the learners
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Citation
Dampson, D. G., Owusu-Mensah, F., Apau, S. K., & Osei-Owusu, B. (2019). Learner support gaps in distance learning: The case of Institute for Distance Education and e-Learning, University of Education, Winneba. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal, 6(8), 487-499.