Information and Communication Technologies’ (ICTs) Enhancing Teaching and Learning in ODL

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) are digital tools that distribute educational content, and facilitate teaching and learning in ODL (Open and Distance Learning) universities. This study was conducted at the Zimbabwe Open University (ZOU) to ascertain the role that ICTs play in teaching and learning. The qualitative approach was employed and data were gathered through interviews and open-ended questionnaires from nine ZOU staff members and students. It was established that ICTs were used by most students studying with ZOU in the eleven regions and most got their modules as hard copies and through an online platform called MyVista. and they had the option to download and print them. ICTs were used by the students to apply online, register online and get their assignments and results online. It was also discovered that some ZOU academic staff and students did not fully appreciate the importance of ICTs, hence, the need to train them in use of ICTS.