An Assessment of Constraints of Distance Learners: The Case of Alpha University College at Addis Ababa Branch
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Date
2009-02
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The main objective 0/ this study was to assess constraints 0/ degree level distance
learners in ACDS at Addis Ababa branch. To conduct this study, descriptive survey
research design was employed. The subjects olthis study were chosen using simple
random and stratified random sampling procedures. To get the necessCllY data,
questionnaire were administered to 273 sample distance learners and interviews were
conducted with 15 course tutors, 5 coordinators and 3 administrators of A CDS Besides,
document inventOlY was made. Data analysis were made by using statistical tools such as
percentages, /i'equencies and weighted mean to identify whether there were diflerences or
agreement in the views of the respondents regarding the various variables. Accordingly,
the analysis based on the data revealed that majority of distance learners have personal
constraints such as lack of study skill, feeling ol isolation and lack of motivation.
Particularly, 66.8 per cent o.lthe respondents reported that they lacked the ability to use
different approaches and techniques for learning and study respectively. As to feeling ol
isolation o.f the respondents during their distance study, 63.5 per cent o.l the respondents
asserted that they felt isolated .Fom a teacher during their distance study. Regarding
respondents motivation towards their learning, the study revealed that most of distance
learners in ACDS in Addis Ababa are externally motivated. Problems identified by
respondents which were related to course/instructional materials include: lack of clear
indication ol any prerequisite knowledge or skill/or the course (689%), the instruct ional
materials were not cater for diflerent learning prelerences (66.4%), the instructional
materials were not visually allractive(56.4%). Besides, the study indicated that
inadequate student support services, limited instructional media and inappropriate
assessment methods were some 0/ the institutional problems 0/ distance learners.
Moreover, inability to adjust job and /amily responsibilities with the study, finanCial
constraints and negative attitude olthe society towards distance education in general and
towards learners in particular were identified as constraints 0/ distance learners at
A CDS in Addis Ababa. Thus, we can infer that personal, institutional and socio-economic
constraints ({ffect the success of distance learners at ACDS in Addis. Therefore, it is
recommended that the institution should give emphasis on quality o.f course materials and
instructional methods to motivate learners, prepare study guidelines to solve some oflack
of study skills 0/ learners, increase the interaction between learners and tutors as well as
among learners to reducefeeling 0/ isolation during their study. Besides, the insti!ution
should develop programs and services to enhance its academic status and social
credibility by giving emphasis for the achievements of its educational programs and the
/ii/fillment 0/ learners need.
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Keywords
Constraints of Distance Learners