A Model for Scaffolding Traditional Distance Learners in Africa For Constructivistic Online Learning
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Date
2009
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Makerere Journal of Higher Education
Abstract
How can we solve the lull in uptake and usage of online learning amongst traditional
distance learners in Africa? Several online learning initiatives are taking place in Africa,
but a critical assessment of their impact in terms of increasing access to higher
education through distance learning indicates, in most cases, lack of value for money.
A few distance learners use online learning management systems and other online resources
in those institutions. How then do we interest and motivate the majority of traditional
distance learners in Africa to adopt and uphold online learning practices? This
paper provides a model that can be used to scaffold traditional distance learners in
Africa for constructivistic online learning. The framework is built based on experiences
derived from a survey of third year Bachelor of Commerce distance learning students at
Makerere University who participated in an online learning pilot. The students were,
for their very first time, asked to undertake three out of ten modules of an Information
Technology course using an online learning mode. This course had previously been tutored
using traditional face to face and print based materials methods. The three online
modules were tutored using the BlackboardTM Learning Management System. The model
is important for managing change from traditional distance learning delivery methods
to online delivery methods and ensuring that distance learners in Africa uphold online
learning practices.
Description
Keywords
Constructivistic Online Learning, Learning Management System, e-Learning, Online Learning, Traditional Distance Learning, Makerere University
Citation
Muyinda, P. B., Lubega, J. T., & Lynch, K. (2009). A model for scaffolding traditional distance learners in Africa for constructivic online learning. Makerere Journal of Higher Education, 2.