Perception of Learners and Facilitators on the Best Practices for Effective Teaching and Learning of Science Courses in Open and Distance Education

Abstract

The study investigated the perceptions of learners and facilitators on the best practices for effective teaching and learning of science courses in open and distance learning. A descriptive survey design was used for the study. Eight research questions were posed to guide the study. A total of 180 students and 30 tutorial facilitators selected by purposive sampling from study centres in the South-east and South-south geopolitical zones in Nigeria constituted the sample. Two different questionnaires were used for data collection. Data was analyzed using means and percentage frequencies. Findings reveal that using practical demonstration, engagement with hands on activities and use of examples constitute the best practices for teaching science courses in open and distance learning mode as perceived by the facilitators. Availability of functional internet facilities, using practical demonstrations and availability of personal computers/laptops for tutorials are among the instructional modes that students perceive as best practices for learning science courses in open and distance learning . Facilitators and students perceive lack of well-equipped laboratory as a constraint to the attainment of best practices in the teaching and learning of science courses in open and distance. Recommendations were made based on the findings.