An Analysis of Students’ Perception About Instructional Practices at Post Graduate Level of Allama Iqbal Open University

Abstract

Instructional practices are one of the fast-changing factors of teaching and learning in today’s fast technological development era. These are instructional practices which provide opportunity for better learning and effective relevant material to the learners. The purpose of this study was to analyze the students’ perception about instructional practices at post graduate level of Allama Iqbal Open University. This study was descriptive in nature and conducted by using survey with mixed-method approach as well as sequential exploratory design. Focused group discussion (N=12) was conducted during workshop with students’ consent. On the basis of focus group discussion, a questionnaire (26 items) was developed on five-point Likert Scale to find out students’ perceptions. Content validity was checked through experts’ opinion. Sample of N=802 were selected of MPhil and PhD students enrolled at Allama Iqbal Open University in all faculties i.e. Faculty of Sciences, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Arabic and Islamic Studies, Faculty of Education using convenient sampling technique. Survey was conducted to collect the data. Data was analyzed by using statistical techniques of percentage, mean score, t-test, ANOVA (Analysis of Variance). The findings of the study highlighted the importance of instructional practices for open distance learners. Students’ perception regarding instructional practices was towards agreement (M=4.0). Students of faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities were found more satisfied as compared to the students of other faculties about instructional practices. The study led to the recommendations regarding instructional practices in different contexts and disciplines across all programs and faculties.