Learning Outcomes in Distance Learning: A Study of Learners’ Experience

• Main Authors: Soon , Seng Thah, Latifah Abdol Latif,
• Other Authors: Li , K. C.
• Format: Book Section
• Published: Springer
• Subjects: LC5201 Education extension. Adult education. Continuing education
• Online Access: http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/1261/

Online and distance learning (ODL) institutions have often been seen as possessing an innovative and technology-driven delivery approach in teaching and learning practices—the key to which lies in the online delivery of instruction for working learners. Online delivery requires e-tutoring and the use of teaching and learning materials to facilitate instruction across diverse groups of learners in a ubiquitous learning environment. This chapter focuses on Open University Malaysia’s (OUM) approach in leveraging online learning for its stakeholders. This study attempts to confirm the factors which affect the learning outcomes in ODL and was conducted via a web survey of 397 learners enrolled at OUM. Three key constructs emerged from factor analysis, viz. (i) teaching and learning materials; (ii) e-learning; and (iii) learning experiences. As ODL institutions enrol learners from various demographic groups, this study attempted to examine whether learners’ demographic differences, such as gender, age, experience in online learning, study results, and the time spent on online learning, had a significant bearing on learning outcomes. An interesting finding was that the time learners spent in logging-in to online sessions had a significant effect on the learning outcomes. Based on the empirical evidence in the study, this chapter concludes that ODL can guide working learners towards the acquisition of the desired knowledge and skills needed to excel in academic pursuits. (Abstract by authors)