Determining Factors Influencing Learners' Decisions to Develop their Professionals through Open and Distance Learning at the Learning Centres
Developing Professionals through Open and Distance Learning
Abstract
Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative mode of education in Tanzania, especially among the adult working class who wish to advance their professionals without attending full-time classes. This quantitative study aims to determine the factors that influence learners to pursue professional development through ODL at learning centers. The study involved 576 continuing and graduated diploma learners from the Institute of Adult Education in Mbeya, Ruvuma, and Dar es Salaam. Data was collected from respondents using a closed questionnaire. Key descriptive statistics, including tables, frequencies, and percentages, were used to analyze and present the findings using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). The findings reveal that respondents’ socioeconomic status, age, gender, marital status, and region significantly influence their decision to study through the ODL mode. Taking into account the needs and preferences of learners regarding this mode of learning is crucial. This consideration will encourage more learners to use open and distance learning, which will increase enrollment and lower dropout rates
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