The use of information and communication technology in supervising open and distance learning PhD students

Fine Masimba,Promise Zvavahera

doi:10.32919/uesit.2019.03.04

Abstract

Even though open and distance learning (ODL) using Information and Communication Technologies can be applied across disciplines and at various levels, this paper focuses on the supervision of PhD students studying through the Open and Distance Learning mode of education using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). Taking into account the fact that higher education institutions are always striving to increase the quality of supervision and throughput of doctoral programmes, the study highlights how Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) can mitigate these challenges. The study was carried out in 10 Zimbabwean universities to evaluate the levels of preparedness of universities, supervisors and PhD students in using information and communication technology during their studies. Purposive sampling was used focusing on PhD students studying through ODL, local universities offering PhD programmes experienced, PhD supervisors, the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education officials and officials from the Ministry of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development. Students, universities and supervisors were not fully prepared to do their work using ICTs due to various reasons. Some of the reasons given were that some universities did not have the required infrastructure and facilities in place. Some of the supervisors and students lacked basic computer skills and this affected the quality of supervision and slowness in giving feedback. The lack of internet availability and poor connectivity were also cited as challenges especially with the prevailing load shedding. The study recommends universities to invest in ICTs infrastructure since higher education transcends geographical boundaries.

Highlights

The high demand for PhDs in Africa and across the globe, have witnessed high numbers of PhD students entering universities (Frick, 2011; Gatfield, 2005)
Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) has greatly assisted open and distance learning (ODL) to remove barriers to access to higher education, allows for easy access to learning materials, flexibility and facilitates the student to quickly develop into an independent researcher
It was further noted that most lecturers who were above 60 years of age were immune to using ICT in their daily work let alone for supervision purposes

Summary

Introduction

The high demand for PhDs in Africa and across the globe, have witnessed high numbers of PhD students entering universities (Frick, 2011; Gatfield, 2005). ODL has become popular across the globe because of its flexibility and low cost (Gaba, 2004). For ODL to be successful and beneficial to postgraduate students, a combination of distance learning and ICT is key. This mode of learning is student-centred and there is recognition of diversity in learning styles considering the students’ requirements and other factors that impact on the learning environment. ODL makes optimum use of the limited supervisors available in universities. It deals with cultural differences across the geographical space. It is critical to assess the levels of preparedness of universities, PhD students and supervisors to use ict during their studies

Objectives

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Results

Conclusion