Challenges of accessibility and utilization of Open Education Resources (OERs) in single and dual mode Open Education (ODE) institutions in Lagos

Abstract

The study investigated the challenges of accessibility and utilization of Open Education Resources (OERs) in single and dual mode Open Distance Education (ODE) Institutions in Lagos. The population of the study was made up of 58,090 students of National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Lagos study centers and Distance Learning Institute (DLI) University of Lagos. Six research questions and 1 hypothesis were raised to guide the study. A multi-stage sampling method was used in selecting 400 (232 from NOUN and 168 from DLI) respondents for the study. Researchers-developed 4-point Likert scale questionnaire was used in eliciting information from the respondents. Simple percentages, mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions raised while independent t-test was used to test the null hypothesis stated. The findings of the study revealed that there is a relatively high awareness level of OERs among the students. It also revealed that OERs are readily available in the two institutions. It was found out also that the students have access to the OERs. However, the study showed that the students face a lot of challenges in accessing the OERs. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made which include that training on the use of theOERs and other internet-based educational materials should form part of the orientation programme for ODE students in Lagos.