Learner Support in Distance Education: Unlocking the Potential of Public Libraries in Supporting Teaching and Learning In Open and Distance Learning
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Date
2015
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In EDEN Conference Proceedings
Abstract
This study examined the nature of services and facilities available and accessible in public
libraries to ODL students in sub-Saharan Africa and the challenges these services face. Library
services are central in teaching and learning processes because they expose the students to a
variety of resources which facilitate in-depth study and lead to development of intended
competencies. However, according to Pernell (2002), traditional library services often fail to
adapt to the needs of Open and Distance Learning students especially in dual mode
universities. This in the end affects students' final grades as well as the quality of education
they receive. Using a cross sectional survey, from 422 respondents who include students, staff
(both on campus and off campus) and librarians, data were collected though questionnaires,
interviews, focus group discussions and documentary analysis. The findings reveal that due to
inadequate library resources in study centres where ODL students are meant to receive remote
support, the students have been utilizing library resources from the public libraries. This
support from public libraries however needs to be acknowledged and fully integrated in the
University policy provision for effective collaboration and knowledge sharing to ensure
smooth coordination of library activities. This paper seeks to examine the potential of public
libraries in supporting distance learners in Makerere University and the need for policy to
guide the collaborations and while sharing library resources.
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Citation
Mutambo, H. N., Aguti, J. N., & Winterbottom, M. (2015, June). Learner Support in Distance Education: Unlocking the Potential of Public Libraries in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Open and Distance Learning. In EDEN Conference Proceedings (No. 1, pp. 679-689). https://doi.org/10.38069/edenconf-2015-ac-0078