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Open and distance learning is a form of learning that focuses on freeing learners from the constraints of time and place while offering flexible learning opportunities. For many married and working adults, Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is a way to combine work and family responsibilities with educational opportunities.
The first challenge faced by distance learners online is balancing the mix of work and education. Most Open and Distance Learning students are older, have jobs and families. Job responsibility is already intimidating, not to mention family and learning. The task of balancing all the above responsibilities is a real challenge for most of them.
The second problem is acquiring online distance study habits. The everyday environment of students is very distracting for most students. Unlike traditional college students who are always in their supportive learning community most of the time, online distance learners are not. Distractions like friends ordering dinner and a wife demanding to go shopping at the mall every weekend are among other distractions students face. Acquiring some time in a day to study is quite a difficult task to complete.
Online distance learners also have a hard time being independent and self-responsible. Most of the time, there is no one around to monitor the learning process of the students. Opening up the distance learning program online gives students the freedom to go through their learning process whenever they want, but more often than not, procrastination is to blame. The unfocused view of their learning objectives will also cause students to act irresponsibly towards their learning.
Online distance learners also face trouble recognizing and mastering strengths and abilities. In online distance learning, technology is the main conduit through which information and communication flows. Usually, a computer with Internet access is needed for this process and its application will require the user to master a certain level of acquisition. Students will also need to have some basic writing skills and a command of the online distance English language. Unfortunately, not all students possess the skills mentioned above.
The fifth challenge is to motivate themselves, as well as to maintain and increase self-esteem. In online distance learning, learners are often isolated from their peers and tutors. Motivational factors are absent due to lack of contact and competition with other students. The lack of immediate support from a teacher who is able to motivate will also affect students. In the long run, students may feel uncomfortable with their teacher and uncomfortable with their learning situation and environment.
Online distance learners also face some problems in relating and interacting with their peers. Most of the time, students will learn most effectively when they have the opportunity to interact with other students. Unfortunately, study group formation is not easy. This is due to the difference in the use of time between students. A particular student may have some free time to meet her classmates at 10 am every Saturday, but another student who works in the government sector may still be at work at the exact time.
The next is to deal with distance learning strategies in addition to the package of printed materials that students are familiar with. There may be audio/video tape material, television-assisted learning, overhead projectors, computer references, and computer-assisted instruction via the Internet. Some students may be uncomfortable with these learning strategies due to a lack of skills and knowledge to use those strategies.
The penultimate challenge is preparing for and taking the exams. To excel on the exam, students must start early in understanding the course content and in preparing and reviewing the content. However, not all students start early in their learning process. Not having enough time, laziness, too many jobs to do are among other reasons given by this type of students to avoid studying for exams.
The final challenge faced by online distance learners is using library facilities to access information and references. Most of the library is only open during office hours and students would not be able to go to the library during office hours due to demanding office work. This will definitely cause problems for students who want to access the reference material. The library’s database program, like the OPAC, will also require students to have the proper training and skills to maximize usage.
Open and Distance Education courses are very different from a traditional classroom. Due to a number of challenges and obstacles, it often requires a high degree of commitment from the student.
To overcome these distance challenges online, students must first plan and manage effectively to balance work, family, and study. They have to apply intelligent time management. Avoiding procrastination is essential. They must be more responsible and have a vision focused on learning. They must also learn to improve in areas that they lack (such as writing skills, note-taking skills, computer skills, and English language skills) because the tutor will not teach all the skills. They need to motivate themselves by setting achievable goals and having a positive attitude. Due to the lack of meeting time with peers, they have to make an effort to interact with peers and tutors frequently.