Reaching all through Open and Distance Learning in Tanzania

Abstract

The rapid development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and the move towards more knowledge-intensive, interdependent and internationalized societies create new challenges and opportunities for the design and delivery of distance education. There are three reasons for disseminating distance education to all societies; vis-à-vis geographical isolation, social isolation and disadvantaged groups. The emergence of the internet and related networks like the World Wide Web and  Web 2.0, have had and will increasingly have radical effect on the transformation of education and training in all sectors. The use of innovative teaching and learning methods helps to sustain student’s interest and make the learning process more productive and interesting. The techniques that can be adopted are: the use of internet through which different search engines and subject based information gateways can be used to supplement teaching/learning resources; computer-assisted learning and web-based learning which includes virtual laboratories, discussion forum, chat, audiovisual presentation, moodling and tutorials. The Ministry of Education and Vocational Training and its education agencies have to review the curriculum and establish centers at district, municipal or at ward level through which open and distance learning can be accessed by the majority. Also, they have the role of ensuring that the facilities used for the programme are user-friendly to learners and particularly those with physical disabilities. However, quality assurance unit incorporating curriculum developers needs to be in place for monitoring and evaluation of the resources, ICT facilities, courses and programmes offered and the learning content, the staff, technology, learning methods and services.

Keywords: Distance learning, Education, ICT, e-learning