Effectiveness of online discussion forum at Open University Malaysia (OUM)

• Main Authors: Kaur, Abtar, Assoc Prof Dr, Hairudin, Harun, Prof Dr
• Format: Article
• Published: 2004
• Subjects: LC5201 Education extension. Adult education. Continuing education; LG Individual institutions (Asia. Africa)
• Online Access: http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/58/1/Effectiveness_Of_Online_Discussion_Forum.pdf; http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/58/

Open and Distance Learning (OOL) is a concept that has received high praise, both within and outside academia. It has been praised for the flexibility it can offer learners in enabling them to fit their academic pursuits around their work and family obligations. ODL offers students considerable benefits, including increased access to learning. lifelong learning opportunities and convenience of time and place (St. Pierre, 1998). The contract between tutor and learner, whether in an actual classroom or virtual, requires that the learner be taught, assessed. given guidance and prepared for examinations. This must be accomplished by two-way communication. Learning may be undertaken eitherindividually or in groups; in either case, it is accomplished in the physical absence of the teacher during an online forum in ODL. Opcn and Distance teaching materials are provided to learners in the fonn of modules and e-material where they are structured in ways that facilitate learning at a distance.