Pathway to Quality: Incorporating Students’ Perceptions in the University Learner Support System
Date
2019-04-30
Authors
Ouma, Richard
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Institute for Science, Technology and Education
Abstract
The provision of learner support is pivotal in understanding the development trend in distance education. A
survey of the literature indicates limited incorporation of the student perspective in learner support strategies in
Open and Distance Education in Uganda. To investigate the students’ perspective of the university learner
support practices, this study used a quantitative approach involving a 45 questionnaire items to collect the
students’ views. Using factor analysis technique, findings from the study revealed four constructs of learner
support, namely; academic advising support, library and technology support, counselling and career support, and
communication service support. The study concludes that analysing and incorporating the views of the students
in decision making at faculty and institution level help to consolidate learner support efforts, nurtures a relevant
learner support culture and creates a pathway to improved learning in Open and Distance Education. It therefore
recommends that the views/voice of the students should be considered in the planning and delivery of Open and
Distance Education. In addition, investment in affordable ICTs is key to the effectiveness of learner support
management and delivery in Open Distance Education.
Description
Keywords
Open and distance education, Students’ perceptions, Learner support, Factor analysis