Factors Affecting Provision of Learners Support Service in Open and Distance Learning Programs in Tanzania

Social Science

This study examines the factors affecting the provision of learners' support services in open and distance learning programs. This study used a qualitative approach that uses words in data collection, data gathering, interpreting, organizing, and presenting data. This study was carried out at the Institute of Adult Education in Dar es Salaam campus. The area was selected for the purpose of generating reliable information for making solutions to this problem due to the presence of open and distance learning programs. The study was carried out to identify types of learners support services needed to distance learners in Open and Distance Learning programs (ODL programs) and the study suggests better strategies to be employed to improve the provision of learner's support services to learners in ODL programs. This study used both primary and secondary data. Primary data carried out through the questionnaire and interview which involved sample size of fifty-one (51) respondents including ODL coordinator, ODL learners, and lecturers. This study employed a descriptive method of data analysis. Basing on the study findings the respondents contributed by mentioned types of learners support services needed to distance learners which included academic support services which provided by the tutors basing on all teaching and learning process, administrative support service which involve the help in all office service and information, setting of centers and distribution of materials and guidance and counseling service which deals with comforting learners and make them feel cared in order to enable them to carry well their learning process. The study findings also revealed several strategies to be employed to improve the provision of learners' support services to learners in ODL programs including employ the advanced technology, having trained personnel for provision of learners support services, and being more accountable. This study recommends that the organization must know that the better provision of adult education programs lay on its shoulder. It must have a good system to monitor every Open and Distance Education program so as to make sure the education provided meets the qualifications and meet the needs of the learners. Thus, the evaluation process must be done before, in the middle, and at the end of the program so as to know the strength and weaknesses of the program and take measures to improve the provision of those programs. This would help to strengthen the provision of learners to support services and attract many learners in ODL programs.

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