Open and distance learning: the opportunity of socioeconomic transformation for Zambians.
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Date
2015-09
Authors
Muleya, Gistered
Ndhlovu, Daniel
Namangala, Boniface
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development Volume: 2, Issue: 9,
Abstract
In Zambia, Open and Distance learning (ODL) as an opportunity of socio-economic transformation to
citizens has existed for decades but with very little emphasis by the education providers. Despite little
emphasis of ODL, this paper argues that it is a viable opportunity of socio-economic transformation for
Zambians. . This argument emanates from the background that conventional mode of learning in a
classroom has for a long time limited a lot of citizens from acquiring specialised type of education resulting
in most sectors of the economy such as Education, Health, Manufacturing, Mining, Engineering, Defence
and Security understaffed in Zambia. To address this shortage of specialised work force in Zambia, there is
an urgent demand for specialised education. But how can the depleted or scanty levels of human resource
leave their work places and go to sit in a classroom for a period ranging from four to six years to obtain a
first degree level of education at the expense of providing their critical services required of them their
fellow citizens? This question leaves us with no option but to argue that ODL is a viable option or
opportunity in addressing the growing demand for education for socio-economic transformation in Zambia.
ODL can increase the capacity of education institutions without extensive building of infrastructure by
allowing learners the flexibility to remain in their communities or work places. In addition, ODL provides
an opportunity to learners who work full-time and who are unable to attend full-time conventional mode of
learning to acquire education relevant to their career paths. Education is a tool for socio-economic
transformation of societies and countries. Through education societies can acquire right knowledge, skill,
values and attitudes that are oriented to transforming their socio-economic lives.
Description
Keywords
Open learning, , Distance learning. , Socio-economic transformation.