Reflection on Learner Support Services and Scope of Web-based Services under Distance Education: A Case Study

Abstract

Quality learner support system (LSS) is one of the important components for successful completion of an educational programme under the open and distance learning (ODL) system. The use of Web-based technologies is encouraged to supplement LSS as it provides an important link between the teachers and students for knowledge and skills transfer and enhances interaction between teachers and learners and amongst learners themselves. This paper examined the types and extent of learner support services used by learners of a distance education programme along with difficulties encountered by the learners in completion of the programme. Awareness about the Web-based learner support services and perception on the utility of the Web-based LSS were included in the paper. The paper presented the opinion of the learners about requisite Web-based learner support services and their willingness to pay (WTP) for such support system under the ODL system. The study was conducted using an online survey method. The data were collected from the learners of the Post Graduate Diploma in Food Safety and Quality Management (PGDFSQM) programme which is being offered by the School of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi National Open University, New Delhi, India. The study revealed that LSS helped in successful completion of the programme under the ODL system. Further, those learners who used the Web-based support services were more successful in completing their studies. The study found that considerations for laptops and smart mobile phones should be made in the design of the Web-based support system since most of the learners had access to these devices. The expenditure on development of Web-based LSS could be met by charging the learners additional fees. The Web-based LSS, as suggested by the learners, has potential to resolve the constraints in completion of the programme under the ODL.