The changing pattern of University Education in West Africa (A case study of the National Open University of Nigeria)

Abstract

The utilization of technology in education has become a global trend, with West African countries actively exploring its integration into their educational systems. The internet is often perceived as a tool devoid of inherent values, offering the potential to democratize access to learning and overcome traditional barriers. It is widely acknowledged that online technologies hold the promise of addressing educational disparities and social exclusion while creating inclusive and accessible educational opportunities. The Nigerian government, recognizing the limitations of conventional educational methods, has advocated for the adoption of new technologies to reduce the cost of educating a large population of adults who have been excluded from traditional learning channels. This paper provides an overview of the advancements in open, distance, and technology-driven learning, with a focus on The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) as a case study. It employs the social cognitive theory to examine how universities in West Africa are embracing online learning practices, drawing insights from experiences in Western Countries.