Academics' perceptions and responses to students’ academic underperformance in Open Distance e-Learning environment
students’ academic underperformance in Open Distance e-Learning environment
Abstract
Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) has gained significant popularity worldwide due to its convenience and flexibility in offering higher education. However, even with its popularity, it also has challenges like the underperformance of students, resulting in low throughput rates. This study aimed to explore academics' perceptions of students' academic underperformance and their strategies of addressing student’s underperformance in an ODeL environment. Data for this study were collected qualitatively through semi-structured interviews with academics in a South African ODeL institution. The data collected were then analysed thematically. Factors influencing the underperformance of students in ODeL institutions are discussed, including a lack of student support, the digital divide, gender role, home environment and poor time management. The study further found that academics employ multifaceted strategies in addressing student’s underperformance. This paper emphasises the importance of understanding and addressing these factors, which will result in improving quality of education and, thereafter, high throughput rates in ODeL institutions. The findings of this study will help not only policymakers and institutions but also students through the interventions to be taken by institutions when addressing the underperformance of students.
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