|
Makale Özeti:
|
The use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to bridge the communication
gap between teacher and learner has been identified as a major characteristic of Open
and Distance Learning (ODL). In many developing counties, including Nigeria, several
barriers prevent OD learners from maximising the potentials of ICTs to enhance their
learning. This study seeks to identify these barriers and consequently, strategies to
overcome them within the Nigerian context. Subjects of the research are OD learners
in three selected distance learning institutions in Nigeria. Responses from
administered questionnaires and interviews constitute the data, which were analysed
using appropriate statistical instruments. The findings of this study which form part of
an ongoing regional research on the use of ICTs by distance learners, show that
much of ODL instructional delivery is still primarily print based;
there is some significant progress has been made especially with regard
to encouraging the use of some non traditional ICTs through ODL; and
although Nigeria has embarked on implementing computer literacy at all
levels, the issue of affordability, bandwidth, and infrastructural facilities
like constant electricity remain barriers.
However, the data that most can afford mobile phones thus providing a unique
opportunity to maximize them as support tools for learning.
|