Topic: Development of an evaluation tool for print based Open and Distance Learning Material of Indian Universities and Institutions affiliated to the Distance Education Council.
Author: Aparna Bharate
Year: 2008-2009
Abstract:
There is an increase in the Open and Distance Learning Universities and Institutions, nationally as well as internationally. This is due to the various benefits offered by this mode of learning like accessibility, flexibility and learner-centered approach. ICT has further increased the potentials of ODL. Learning is imparted through different mediums in ODL systems like print, audio-video, computer assisted instruction, computer based training, internet, web based training, synchronous/asynchronous learning, etc. The quality of learning resources and the efficacy of delivery mechanism are two crucial factors determining success of an ODL programme. The ODL materials have different design features and are different from the textbook.
The research aims to take a view of the print based study materials given by the Indian Distance and Open Universities as well as the institutions affiliated with the Distance Education Council and see if it addresses to serve its purpose.
Objectives of the research were:
This is an Evaluation Research. An evaluation of the materials was done using an evaluation tool which was developed to see if it has the design according to the ideal characteristics of ODL material. This research followed a quantitative approach.
The evaluation tools can be used to evaluate the ODL materials to check its design features and to rate ODL materials on the criteria mentioned in the tools. Findings of research: some of the elements of an ideal ODL material are present in all the five samples like – Title, Introduction, Content, Language, Unit end exercise. While other elements were missing in some and present in others like the Unit structure, numbering of section and sub-sections, use of visuals, in-text activity, objectives for the chapter, use of boxes, etc. While some of the features were lacking in all the samples like feedback for the activities and exercises, use of humour in language, etc. The print based materials of Indian Universities have a lot of scope for improvement.
