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http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/2647
Title: | An Investigation into the Nature and Treatment of Learning Difficulties of Distance Learners at Intermediate Level |
Authors: | Masresha, Melaku |
Keywords: | Nature and Treatment of Learning, Difficulties of Distance Learners,Intermediate Level |
Issue Date: | Oct-2013 |
Abstract: | The Study was aimed at identifying the learning difficulties faced by the distance learners of
private higher education in Ethiopia at intermediate level and to explore the existing support
provided by the higher education to its distance learners to overcome the learning difficulties
emerged during self-study the textual materials and in completing assignments. The study was
descriptive in nature’s it was mixed design study approach w e r e used for data collection a n d
analysis. The population of the study consisted of two categories: the distance learners and the
tutors. The sample for the quantitative part was comprised of 150 distance learners and 80 tutors
using stratified and random sampling techniques. The qualitative phase includes the sample of 16
distances learners represent in four compulsory courses enrolled in two privet higher education
in 2012 at intermediate level. Likewise 10 tutors and two study centers in eastern Ethiopia were
also drawn for the qualitative design. Data for the qualitative phase was collected by developing
two questionnaires: one for the distance learners and second for the tutors.
Statements; items were developed at 5-pointlikert scale, three point scales yes/no for m and open
ended form besides, percentage and mean score, one sample t-test was employed to test the Five
hypothesis of the study. For qualitative part interview were conducted of 16 distance learners
and 10 tutors. An observation sheet was also prepared to observe student tutor intervention in
resolving the learning difficulties the result revealed that the majority of distance learners faced
difficulties in comprehending the modules due to multiplicity of concepts ordained in the
sentences, lack of pro per illustration in the modules and lack of study skills the module materials
was not supplemented with audio and video programs. Lack of time was also a hurdle for the
distance learners as they had to study a lot of modules in short periods of one semester the
difficulty in completing assignment were; the difficulties in making self notes during self studding
the modular material, problems in organization of studied/read materials, hurdles in presenting
critical analysis of the question and difficulties in summarizing the answers. Lastly the tutors
role was also non cooperative as most of the tutors did not correct the wrong answers written by
the students majority of tutors did not return checked assignment to their students in time. The
study centers did not function properly and learning difficulties of distance learners were not
properly treated at study centers through tutorial support and electronic media. |
URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/2647 |
Appears in Collections: | The 2nd Annual Open and Distance Education Seminar
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