LEARNERS’ PERCEPTION OF THE QUALITY OF DISTANCE EDUCATION IN GHANA

Abstract

This study examined the perception of distance learners about the quality of distance education in Ghana. Using a sequential explanatory mixed method approach and data from 500 randomly selected distance learners at the University of Ghana, the study found that the contents of the teaching sessions, the Sakai Learning Management System, and the delivery of course contents met the expectation of the majority of distance learners. However, most learners were dissatisfied with the face-to-face teaching due to frequent cancellations and rescheduling of tutorials, unavailability of facilitators, and the limited number of face-to-face tutorials. Additionally, most distance learners did not receive prompt feedback on their assignments. Also, the study found that distance learners did not receive the needed academic guidance but relied on their peers for such support. Therefore, the study recommends that the management of distance education should invest in student support services such as ICT infrastructure, the provision of the necessary academic and non-academic counselling, and guidance services to support distance education learners.

Keywords: E-learning; distance education; higher education; Sakai LMS; student support

Date of submission: 12th November, 2021; Date of acceptance: 25th October, 2022

Date of publication: 1st December, 2022

*Corresponding author

Citation:

Bawa, Odame, Odame & Adingo (2022). Learners’ Perception of the Quality of Distance Education in Ghana. Multidisciplinary Journal of Distance Education Studies, 1(1), 19-43.

ISSN-L: 2955-7887