Design and Implementation of Open-Access Web-Based Education Useful for E-Learning in Nigeria

Abstract

The current condition of our learning environment is in a deplorable state which is hardly conducive to normal study. The huge increase in student numbers in several institutions in Nigeria exceed the available seats in the lecture theatres coupled with inadequate public-address systems. The traditional learning method is not flexible as it does not permit access to educational resource at any time or place feasible.
Additionally, most students possess personal computers which they use for social purposes instead of academic purposes.

In this paper, a web-based education useful for e-learning was designed and implemented to increase the scope and the effectiveness of traditional learning methods. It is also aimed to improve students-lecturers and students-students interaction academically, using an open source platform which will be more flexible, and cost effective due to free licensing. The programming languages used are
VB.NET and Macromedia Dream Weaver MX2010 which are quite powerful and flexible for further developments.

The designed website was tested for usability, reliability, supportability,
performance and functionality after linking the interfaces to the database and hosted using internet information server (iis). It was observed to have service requirements of online activities. Also, the system is flexible and allows for the integration of various tools and technologies.

Keywords: Web-based education; e-learning; system algorithm