Open University Research Articles

Artificial intelligence in broadcasting: awareness and perception of government policies by staff of open and distance learning institutions in Nigeria. A case study of IPPIS policies in NOUN

One of the key advantages of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is to decrease the social and economic inequalities within the society (Villani, C. et al, 2018), through the dissemination of accurate and timely information. This is only possible where A1 technologies are effectively used to broadcast vital information or policies to people about issues that affect their well-being. One of such policies is the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) which was implemented by the Nigerian Government to forestall and further curb excessive spending and mismanagement of public funds. But one questions the adoption, implementation and efficacy of this financial policy on the Nigerian public servants, especially the staff of the federal government institutions of tertiary education. This policy also interferes with the existing financial policies in these institutions especially in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) educational systems with huge staff whose productive output depends on their social well-being orchestrated on adequate information. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is a leading ODL institution in Nigeria with 4615 workers. New government policies should not destabilise the smooth-running system and pitch her staff against the University Management or the National Universities Union against the Federal Government. Rather, a suitable subtle way of worming in government policies into the systems is ideal. In NOUN, no previous information, seminars or sensitisation was done to intimate the staff about the on-coming financial policy before its implementation despite availability of adequate AI technologies and commensurate staff to man them, hence making the staff very sad and humiliated! This has created disharmony, bitterness and rancour among the NOUN staff, especially in the academia. It has positioned the Nigerian government negatively before NOUN staff, making them continuously castigate the Federal Public Service of Nigeria. These unpleasant effects of the mass miscommunication on IPPIS demonstrate the pertinence of AI-powered broadcasting, that is, how mass communication of public policies can fail when AI-assisted broadcasting is absent. This paper investigates the level of awareness of NOUN staff about the need for the adoption and implementation of IPPIS as a government policy aimed at reforming the financial management process in Nigeria, the perception of NOUN Staff towards IPPIS and its benefits to them. The study, anchored on Robert Freeman’s Stakeholder Theory, led us to expand the theory into a multi-stakeholder theory for policy-making, based on empirical facts embedded in the model of the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.

Examining the Impact of E-Learning on Students’ Knowledge Enhancement in the Sultanate of Oman

The present study attempted to examine the impact of e-learning system education on students’ knowledge enhancement focusing on the teacher, content, technology, and student and analyzing the e-learning factors on students’ learning. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 249 undergraduate students from Arab Open University, Oman campus. The data were analyzed with various statistical tools which can be used to find the relationship between the variables. However, it is revealed that there exists a high effect of e-learning on students’ learning. Further, it is noticed that there exists a moderate effect of e-learning on knowledge enhancement. Multiple regression was run to predict the e-learning system from all four independent variables such as student, teacher, technology, and content and it was proved statistically significant prediction on the dependent variable thereby accepting the study hypotheses. The study also revealed that there are many benefits and challenges associated with the e-learning system. Students were exposed to the e-learning system and felt more confident and comfortable while working on it. It is therefore recommended that e-learning will become the most preferred way of education throughout the Globe. E-learning’s effectiveness also depends on the level of individual and social support available when it is being adopted. Major efforts must be made by universities to continue to improve e-learning that fosters dynamic learning opportunities for students. It is essential to improve technological skills to achieve the best goal of knowledge enhancement. Further, this study can be conducted widely in all the higher education institutions across the country.

The Mchumi Diagram Presentation in Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania: Feedback and Insights

The Mchumi Diagram was presented at six higher-learning institutions in Tanzania in 2019, including Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), the Open University of Tanzania (OUT), St. Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), Tumaini University Dar es Salaam College (TUDARCO), College of Business Education (CBE), and the Institute of Social Work (ISW). The presentations featured public lectures attended by university communities consisting of students, academic staff, and non-academic staff. Following the lectures, feedback sessions were held, during which randomly selected respondents completed evaluation questionnaires. The results indicated that 86.6% of respondents found the Mchumi Diagram to be a valuable tool for entrepreneurship training, particularly in inspiring and instilling entrepreneurial characteristics in the younger generation. Similarly, in 2016, the Mchumi Diagram was presented to primary and secondary schools in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, with 96.3% of respondents recognizing its usefulness. Based on these results, the Mchumi Diagram is recommended for training programs designed to impart entrepreneurship skills, particularly in light of the "Double S" factor as characterized by the diagram.

A Hybrid Machine Learning Approach for Predicting Student Performance Using Multi-class Educational Datasets

Prediction of students’ academic performance has garnered considerable interest, with many institutions seek to enhance students’ performance and their quality of education. The integration of both unsupervised and supervised machine learning techniques has demonstrated significant efficacy in predicting student performance. This paper explores the application of different machine learning methods in predicting student academic performance. Initially, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was utilised to reduce the dataset’s dimensionality, thereby improving its visualisation. Subsequently, K-Means clustering was employed to segregate students into distinct groups, reflective of their learning behaviors. Afterwards, the observed clusters were utilised for training classification models to address each student cluster individually. This approach was implemented in a case study involving an undergraduate science course at a North American University (NAU) and the Open University Learning Analytics Dataset (OULAD). Empirical findings indicate that the combined use of Feedforward Dense Network (FDN), Random Forest (RF), and Decision Tree (DT), specifically in their clustered forms, outperforms other classifiers in predicting student academic performance effectively.

Learners’ Characteristics and Cognitive Test Anxiety in Semester Examination among Students in National Open University of Nigeria

The paper focused on how learners’ characteristics influenced cognitive test anxiety among students of National Open University of Nigeria. The research design used for the study was cross-sectional survey, drawing on the population of 200,000 students at 200 to 400 levels, a sample of 460 were selected using simple sampling technique. Four hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The instrument used for this study was Open and Distance Learners’ Cognitive Test Anxiety Questionnaire (ODLCTAQ) constructed by the researcher. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was 0.83 using Cronbach Alpha statistics. Chi-square statistics was used to analyse the data in order to test the hypotheses. The findings showed that the influence of employment status on students’ cognitive test anxiety was not significant (ꭓ2 (6)= 3.028; P=.805) but that students’ academic discipline had significant influence on students’ cognitive test anxiety (ꭓ2 (12) = 25.942; P=.011). Also, geopolitical zone of NOUN students had significant influence on cognitive test anxiety (ꭓ2 (6)= 20.331; P=.002). It is therefore recommended that management of National Open University of Nigeria should schedule well-spaced out examination timetable in order to take care of the students who are civil servants and those that work in the private companies to have more time to prepare for examinations so as to reduce their cognitive test anxiety. Faculties should put in place various means of reducing the cognitive test anxieties of the students through effective facilitations, discussions and practical sessions.

Students' Perspective about the Usage of Photovoice Method in the Classroom: A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City Open University in Vietnam

Students' Perspective about the Usage of Photovoice Method in the Classroom: A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City Open University in Vietnam

基于关系质量视角的开放大学学生认同感模型构建及影响因素分析

基于关系质量视角的开放大学学生认同感模型构建及影响因素分析

Empowering SSC Learners with Disability at Bangladesh Open University through Open and Distance Learning

Disabilities are a major problem that frequently causes affected people to be socially excluded in Bangladesh. Recognizing the value of inclusive education, Bangladesh's national strategy for 2010 placed a strong emphasis on the necessity of integrating excluded groups, such as people with disabilities, into the educational system. Open School (OS) of Bangladesh Open University plays an important aspect of educating a wide range of people who have not taken part in the traditional educational system. However, the nationwide broadness of these programs and the different entry-level characteristics of the participants complicate delivering effective education. Misconceptions often arise among learners regarding printed text materials and tutorial classes, exacerbating the situation. Furthermore, a lack of coordination makes these problems worse. This study attempts to investigate how learners with disabilities, including those with autism and physical disabilities, feel about these programs. It aims to pinpoint areas for improving program quality and offer insightful information about the socioeconomic circumstances and academic possibilities of students with disabilities. The research's findings are meant to help Bangladesh Open University's faculty, administrators, and policymakers improve and develop these programs for all students, regardless of their skills or limitations

Teaching English Online to Learners of Bangladesh Open University: Expectations and Outcomes

Teaching English Online to Learners of Bangladesh Open University: Expectations and Outcomes

O uso de Tecnologias de Informação e Comunicação em Saúde na Atenção Primária à Saúde no Brasil, de 2014 a 2018

Abstract Information and Communication Technologies in Health allow the storage and processing of digital data, access to information and remote communications. The objective of this article was to describe the use of these Technologies to support clinical practice and continuing education by primary health care teams in Brazil the period of 2014 to 2018, within the scope of the Access and Quality Improvement Program Basic, according to characteristics of the geopolitical context. It’s a cross-sectional study that analyzed the data collected from the teams of the Basic Health Units. A growing use by the teams of Telehealth resources, the Telemedicine University Network and the Open University of the Unified Health System was observed to aid clinical practice and permanent health education. In the North and Northeast regions, the use of these Technologies doubled, from cycle II to cycle III. The need for investments in infrastructure, human resources in Primary Health Care, qualification and professional training is a way to strengthen the Unified Health System and its Health Care Network, contributing to a continuous flow of care, with quality and access universal.

The Open University Comprehensive Budget Performance Management Research Integrating Quality Management Cycle and Balanced Scorecard

The Open University Comprehensive Budget Performance Management Research Integrating Quality Management Cycle and Balanced Scorecard

Students’ Perspective about the Usage of Photovoice Method in the Classroom: A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City Open University in Vietnam

Students’ Perspective about the Usage of Photovoice Method in the Classroom: A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City Open University in Vietnam

Comportamento preventivo contra covid-19 e sua relação com as condições sociais e de saúde de pessoas idosas

Abstract Objective To delineate the profile of preventive behavior against covid-19 adopted by older adults and investigate its correlation with social and health conditions. Method A cross-sectional and analytical study conducted with 72 individuals (≥ 60 years) enrolled in an Open University for Older Adults in the municipality of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil. Participants were contacted via telephone from November 2020 to June 2021. A total of 11 preventive measures were scrutinized to identify the behaviors adopted by older adults against covid-19. Data analysis employed principal component analysis, Pearson's chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests, with a confidence level of 95%. Results The adoption of preventive behaviors was assessed through activities such as hand hygiene with soap and water, use of hand sanitizer, wearing facial masks, and practicing social distancing. The majority of individuals reported the adoption of preventive behaviors (79.2%), and it was observed that those with incomes below four minimum wages exhibited higher proportions of compliance (87.5%) compared to individuals with incomes exceeding 10 minimum wages (46.2%) (p=0.038). Conclusion Preventive measures against covid-19 were embraced by the older adults, influenced by income. The findings underscore the significance of educational strategies for fostering health preventive behaviors, taking into account the social context.

Research on the Social Service Function of Open Universities: Reflection Based on the Concept of Socially Engaged Universities

Research on the Social Service Function of Open Universities: Reflection Based on the Concept of Socially Engaged Universities

Relationship between Employment Status and Knowledge of Balanced Nutrition with Nutritional Status Students

The Open University is one of the campuses of choice for students who work while studying. Limited time due to busy work causes nutritional problems. The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between employment status and balanced nutrition knowledge with the nutritional status of Open University students. Cross-sectional research design with respondents totaling 84 people. The study was conducted from November to December 2022. Data collection using google form. The data is processed with the SPSS program and presented in descriptive form and correlation tests. The relationship between variables is analyzed with the Spearman Test. A total of 73.8% of respondents were employed and 26.2% were unemployed. The average nutritional knowledge of respondents was 68.78%. Half of the respondents had normal nutritional status, 38% overnutrition status and 11.4% undernourished. The results of the study did not have a relationship between employment status and nutritional status but there was a positive relationship between nutritional knowledge and nutritional status. The value of the correlation coefficient between the variables of occupational status and balanced nutrition knowledge is 0.312, which shows that there is a positive correlation and relationship between employment status and nutritional knowledge with nutritional status.

Intraocular lens power calculation formulas: a scientometric analysis.

The most accurate method of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in cataract surgery has not been determined, and further studies are needed to reach a consensus. The aim of this study was to assess publications related to IOL power calculation formulas, mapping their yearly trends, most productive authors, top publishing countries and institutions, and areas of specialization for IOL power formulas. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of research articles published on the topic of IOL power calculation formulas. Using PubMed, we employed appropriate search terms and filtered the results for the period of January 1, 1946, to June 28, 2023. Data were analyzed using CiteSpace, VOSviewer, and Microsoft Excel programs. The visual representations of the collected data through the use of figures was provided to demonstrate the aspects of IOL power calculation research. We retrieved 5475 documents in the initial search. Analysis of these documents revealed an increase in the number of publications, from one publication in 1946 to 201 publications in 2023. The top three countries contributing to these publications were the United States, China, and Japan, collectively accounting for over 27% of the total articles. However, the two institutions with the highest contributions were located in the United Kingdom and Hungary, neither of which was among the top 10 countries in overall contributions. Overall 15 326 authors contributed to publications pertaining to IOL power calculation formulas. Among these authors, the most prolific contributors included Achim Langenbucher from Saarland University (Germany), Giacomo Savini from G.B. Bietti Foundation I.R.C.C.S. (Italy), and Kenneth J Hoffer from the University of California (United States). Saarland University emerged as the most productive institution, contributing equally to two distinct departments: the Dr. Rolf M. Schwiete Center for Limbal Stem Cell Research and Congenital Aniridia, as well as the Department of Experimental Ophthalmology. The School of Physical Science at the Open University in the United Kingdom engaged in partnership with various institutions including Eye & Laser Clinic Castrop Rauxel in Germany and Johannes Kepler University Linz in Austria. Among the top 10 keywords found in the publications were "cataract", "cataract surgery", and "intraocular lens". This study represents the first scientometric analysis of publications related to IOL power calculation formulas. The study offers valuable insights into the geographic distribution, contributing authors, and emphasis of research on the IOL power calculation formulas. Further cooperation is essential to pinpoint the most suitable formula and to address gaps in our current understanding.

The Influence of E-Word of Mouth Marketing on Students’ Selection of Management Degrees

This study aims to examine the influence of electronic word-of-mouth marketing on students’ selection of management degrees. A structured questionnaire was employed to gather data. The target population consisted of management undergraduates during the period from 2016 to 2022 in Sri Lanka, as well as potential students interested in pursuing a management degree program. A sample size of 384 respondents was initially selected, and 312 responses were collected from the management undergraduates of the Open University of Sri Lanka and five other private universities in Sri Lanka. After removing outliers, a total of 283 responses were considered for analysis. Due to the unknown size of the total population, a convenience sampling technique was utilized to select the responses from the undergraduates. The regression analysis results revealed significant and positive effects of e-word of mouth (eWOM) quality, eWOM quantity, and eWOM credibility on students' intention to select management degree programs. Notably, it was found that eWOM credibility exerted the strongest influence on students' intentions in this regard. These findings highlight the importance of considering the quality, quantity, and credibility of eWOM when assessing its impact on students' decision-making process of degree selection. The findings of this study contribute to the existing body of knowledge on e-word-of-mouth marketing in the context of higher education. The results provide insights into the extent to which eWOM marketing influences students' decision-making process and their intention to choose management degree programs. Educational institutions and marketers can leverage these insights to design effective marketing strategies and enhance their online reputation to attract and retain prospective students in Sri Lanka.

Exploring the Use of Electronic Resources for Undergraduate Learning at the National Open University of Nigeria in Kwara State

The significance of learning in achieving academic and career success is a well-established reality affirmed by existing literature. The study investigates the use of e-resources for undergraduate education at the National Open University of Nigeria in Kwara State. Employing a survey research method, the study targeted all undergraduates enrolled at NOUN in Kwara State. The Israel Model was used to allocate responses to each NOUN center based on their projected population. The data collection instrument was a modified questionnaire with good psychometric qualities. To address the study questions and evaluate the hypotheses, descriptive and inferential statistics were used in Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS) version 20.0 at a significance level of 0.05. The results showed that undergraduate students interacted effectively with electronic learning resources. In addition, no statistically significant differences in the usage of e-resources for learning were detected based on gender or digital age. The study revealed that deploying proper learning tools can considerably improve the learning experience for undergraduates. The study recommends encouraging undergraduates, regardless of gender, to use e-resources for learning. This approach is considered to be advantageous for establishing good learning outcomes.

The Dynamics of University-School Partnerships in Teacher Education Practicum: A Comprehensive Analysis and Framework for Successful Implementation

This research delves into the dynamics of university-school partnerships in the context of the teaching practicum at the Open University of Sri Lanka, aiming to develop a framework for successful implementation. The study recognizes the critical role of the teaching practicum in shaping effective educators and acknowledges the diverse teacher education programs offered by the Faculty of Education. The literature review establishes the importance of the teacher education practicum, emphasizing its role as a bridge between theoretical knowledge and practical classroom experiences. University-school partnerships are explored as integral to the success of the practicum, with various models identified, including the clinical practice model and co-teaching model. Challenges in these partnerships, such as communication gaps and differing expectations, are discussed. Existing frameworks and strategies for successful implementation are also examined, highlighting the need for a collective approach and reciprocal learning models. The methodology involves a qualitative research approach, including documentary analysis and focus group discussions with master teachers and university academics. The research objectives include identifying the existing framework of the teaching practicum, exploring strategies for enhancing its quality, and establishing a new school-university partnership framework. Results and discussions present the existing framework of the teaching practicum at the Open University of Sri Lanka, emphasizing specific assessment mechanisms and school-based projects. Stakeholders' perspectives contribute to the formulation of innovative strategies, such as improving program interactions, building partnerships with model schools, and creating a stable master-teacher pool. A conceptual framework/model is proposed, illustrating the collaborative synergy between the university and schools to optimize the teaching practicum. In conclusion, the study underscores the critical role of a robust university-school partnership in the success of the teaching practicum. Recommendations include enhancing communication, capacity building for examiners, implementing innovative partnership strategies, maintaining a stable master teacher pool, establishing empirical arrangements, and creating a dedicated helpdesk. The research findings provide valuable insights for improving the quality and impact of the teaching practicum at the Open University of Sri Lanka.

Instructors’ Conceptions of the Efficacy and Motives for Online Instruction in Open and Distance Learning Mode

This paper employs the Community of Inquiry Theoretical Framework to examine the instructors’ conceptions of training efficacy and motives for online instruction in open and distance learning mode at the Open University of Tanzania (OUT). Using a hermeneutic phenomenology research design, data were collected from 25 instructors at the Open University of Tanzania through in-depth interviews, which were corroborated with questionnaires. Findings from the study indicated that, generally, continuous professional development significantly impacts how instructors teach in the online environment. Although most participants rated training as an effective strategy for online instruction, the programmes lacked regularity and fell short of more relevant training programmes. More specifically, findings indicated that the training package missed some essential contents required by instructors. A wide range of motives for conducting online training is elaborated. This paper recommends that institutions invest in relevant regular training programs for online instructors and ensure comprehensive training packages. Keywords: distance learning, online instruction, online learning, open and distance learning, open learning