Prospects of Open and Distance Learning at the Open University of Tanzania Post-COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic created a paradox in the continuity of education among students all over the world. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) has become a vital solution to overcome barriers to education access associated with the pandemic. This paper analyzed the prospects of ODL at the Open University of Tanzania (OUT) after the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic to avail potential opportunities for learning irrespective of emerging challenges. The study employs a qualitative research approach and an exploratory case study design. A sample of fifteen participants was purposively selected, and five ODL technical staff were conveniently sampled for the study. Findings showed that, following the COVID-19 pandemic, future plans and prospects of the ODL at OUT focus on increasing community awareness towards ODL, increasing flexibility for learning, and expanding enrollment rates. Furthermore, the OUT strives to increase accessibility for ODL by strengthening internet bandwidth to sustain distance learning and engaging financial institutions in supporting students' learning at the OUT. Based on the findings, the study recommends government organizations including the Tanzania Commission for Universities (TCU) to establish ODL policies that will serve as guidelines for ODL operations and place equal promotion for learners' opportunities to education utilizing flexible ODL platforms at the OUT.