BARRIERS IN OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING: A PERSPECTIVE OF PROSPECTIVE TEACHERS & TEACHER EDUCATORS

Abstract

As the demand of open and distance learning approach is increasing day by day due to its flexible nature at the same time many researches reflect various challenges concerning this field. The study was intended to analyze numerous obstacles faced by distance education learners especially in Pakistan. The population of the study was comprised of all the teachers as well as graduate students of distance learning institutions. The data were collected by the use of open ended questionnaire from 150 students and 10 faculty members. The findings indicated that the challenges in the implementation of open and distance learning are numerous in number but some of them reflected by the participants‟ views are related to personal, institutional, social and infrastructure barriers. The key recommendation of the study is that the administrative authorities may organize workshops in nearest areas which are accessible for the students to eliminate transport issues. Most of issues may be resolved by the frequent use of information and communication technology (ICTs) among the universities within the same cities or different cities; it may enhance or creates ease for open and distance learners.