Students’ perception towards the introduction of Open and Distance learning in technical Colleges in Malawi

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess students’ perceptions towards the introduction of Open and Distance Learning (ODL) as a mode of teaching and learning in technical colleges. Using questionnaires which were administered at Soche, Nasawa and Lilongwe technical colleges. Data were collected from three random selected technical colleges. A total of 90 questionnaires were sent and 71 were returned. Students were selected through simple and systematic random sampling techniques. Data gathered from closed ended questions were tabulated into Statistical Package for Social Scientist (SPSS). Data gathered from open ended survey questions were categorised and brought up themes and sub themes. The key findings revealed that students perceive ODL as an alternative educational mode in technical colleges. Students perceived face-to-face contact as an important element in the teaching and learning process. However, they showed a positive perception towards ODL because of its flexibility in terms of time, space, pace and geographical location of students. These findings give insight to TEVETA and other open and distance learning institutions to take into consideration the possibility of offering technical courses through ODL or including ODL as a mode of delivery in technical colleges in order to increase access to technical and vocational education. In addition, scholars in the field of technical and vocational education may carry out further research in technical colleges to establish whether other colleges have the similar perception about ODL if introduced in technical colleges.