OPEN AND DISTANCE LEARNING: OPPORTUNITIES FOR UNIVERSITY DEGREE AS VIEWED BY SENIOR SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ILORIN METROPOLIS

ISHOLA, A. O., ADEYEMO, O. O., ARANSIOLA, C. O., & BADA, A. C.

Abstract

Open and Distance Learning are degree-awarding programmes of institutions like the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University and other accredited Universities that provide alternative opportunities for applicants (both senior school students and working-class) to secure admission in pursuit of a university degree. However, in spite of the challenges senior school students face in securing admission into universities regular degree programmes, students are unaware of an equal degree-awarding opportunity in accredited universities under the Open and Distance Learning programmes. Findings of the study revealed that; most of the respondents were aware of Open and Distance Learning and also viewed Open and Distance Learning programmes as a preferable opportunity for a university degree. The study further revealed that a significant difference existed between male and female senior school students’ views on open and distance learning programmes as an opportunity for a university degree. The study concluded that even though most senior school students were aware of Open and Distance Learning, and also viewed Open and Distance Learning programmes as a preferable opportunity for a university degree. Nevertheless, the researchers briefed the respondents on ODL as an introduction during data collection. It was therefore recommended that a lot more awareness and orientation programs need to be conducted for school students, in other to further encourage their views and interest in ODL as a viable opportunity for a university degree.