A Comparative Study of the Practice of Tertiary Level Distance Education in Bahir Dar University and Alpha Univerity College
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Date
2009
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The purpose of the study was to examinine the practice of tertiary level distance education in two
selected pioneers of public (Bahir Dar University) and private (Alpha University College) higher
education instilutions of Ethiopia. To this end, comparative descriptive survey method was
employed to investigate the convenience of course material distribution system; the quality of
distance learning material, the availability and adequacy of learner support services and the
practice of assessment and feedback. The sample of the study consisted of 380 and 497
management, accounting economics and business administration distance learners of BDU and
A UC respectively. Besides 8 tutors (four from each institution) and two center coordinators of
the institutions under study were selected. Subject groups were selected using availability and
purposive sampling techniques. Data collection tools were questionnaire, semi structured
interview and observation check list. The data collected through the questionnaire were analyzed
using percentages, whereas the qualitative data obtained through semi structured interview and
observation were transcribed, interpreted and triangulated with the quantitative data where
necessary and appropriate.
The findings revealed that both instilutions entirely use print media and did not have convenient
course material distribution system; the quality of distance materials of BDU was not
appropriately designed; the learner support service of both institutions was not diverse and
adequate; tutor marked assignments were neglected by BDU; AUC's assessment practice by
tutor marked assignments had shortcomings such as delay in timely and properly correcting
assignments. Finally, assessment practices of both institutions had shortcomings like
inconvenience of exam schedule, exam hall and delay in announcing their respective learners'
results. Based on the major findings conclusions were drawn and certain recommendations were
forwarded: both institutions should utilize different media and convenient course material
distribution system; revise their distance learning materials; provide various and adequate
learner support services and establish convenient, effective and efficient assessment and feed
back system.
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Keywords
Tertiary Level Distance Education