ADVANTAGE OF ADOPTION OF OPEN DISTANCE AND E-LEARNING TO INCREASE ACCESS TO FEMALE HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

Purpose: A highly educated woman is viewed as rude, uncooperative and unable to manage house work. These perceptions are said to discourage some female and their parents from pursuing higher education in marginal areas. The general objective of the study was to establish advantage of adoption of Open Distance and e-Learning to increase access to female in higher education. Methodology: The paper used a desk study review methodology where relevant empirical literature was reviewed to identify main themes and to extract knowledge gaps. Findings: The study recommends that is a need for pursuing policies and programs to develop Information and Communication Technology as well as Open and Distance Education to wide access to quality educational opportunities. There is general recognition of the potential for Open Distance and e-Learning to meet the needs of some groups of women. This study proposes the development of Information and Communication Technology and Open Distance and e-Learning policies to exploit the advantages of the mass media while at the same time putting in place the development of supportive electronic networks. Also, a strong national framework is required to support a national quality assurance network in order to guide student assessment systems at all levels of Open Distance and e-Learning. Recommendations: The study recommends that is a need for pursuing policies and programmes to develop Information and Communication Technology as well as Open and Distance Education to wide access to quality educational opportunities. There is general recognition of the potential for Open Distance and e-Learning to meet the needs of some groups of women. This study proposes the development of Information and Communication Technology and Open Distance and e-Learning policies to exploit the advantages of the mass media while at the same time putting in place the development of supportive electronic networks. Also, a strong national framework is required to support a national quality assurance network in order to guide student assessment systems at all levels of Open Distance and e-Learning