Instructors and Students Competences, Perceptions and Access to E-learning Technologies: Implications for E-learning Implementation at the Open University of Tanzania

New Search

Print Abstract

E-mail Abstract

Full Text

Save to My Collections

Export Citation

Nihuka, K.A. & Voogt, J. (2011). Instructors and Students Competences, Perceptions and Access to E-learning Technologies: Implications for E-learning Implementation at the Open University of Tanzania. International Journal on E-Learning, 10(1), 63-85. Chesapeake, VA: AACE.
Retrieved from http://www.editlib.org/p/32413.

• Share:
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Journal Information

International Journal on E-Learning
ISSN 1537-2456
Volume 10, Issue 1, January 2011
Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE)  Chesapeake, VA

More Information on IJEL

Authors

Kassimu A. Nihuka, Open University of Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; Joke Voogt, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands

Abstract

In most sub-Sahara African countries, distance education is delivered using print materials complemented by a few face-to-face sessions. The approach is associated with a myriad of challenges some of which can be addressed by appropriately selected e-learning technologies based on the context in which they need to be used. This study was designed to understand the context of the Open University of Tanzania related to the use of e-learning technologies in distance education. A sample of 32 instructors and 208 students participated in the study. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Results show that despite limited access to technologies, instructors and students (i) have positive perceptions about using e-learning technologies for distance education and support of students and (ii) have competences on basic computer and internet applications. It is argued that challenges related to narrow bandwidth, access, experiences and motivation of instructors to use e-learning technologies must be considered in deciding what technologies to use. Implications of the results for e-learning implementation, instructors’ professional development and student learning needs are discussed.

Keywords

• Competencies
• Students
• Teachers
• Accessibility
• Distance Education
• eLearning

Also Read

• Designing with and for Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge: The Evolution of GeoThentic
• Using e-Learning Technologies in Developing Remeditainment Products for the Treatment of Children with Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)
• Post degree online course in Haematopathology and e-Learning: description of an innovative curriculum in e-Learning
• Podcasts in Higher Education: What Students Want, What They Really Need, and How This Might be Supported
• Using RSS in Collaborative Course Development
• Teaching for Success: Technology and Learning Styles in Preservice Teacher Education
• Five-Picture Charades: A Flexible Model for Technology Training in Digital Media Tools and Teaching Strategies
• Reducing E-Learning Development Costs Using a Streamlined XML-based Approach
• Inspiring Learning and Teaching: Using e-tools to Facilitate Change
• Using Authentic Situations and Avatars to Build Knowledge in an E-Learning Environment

Tags