Successful Learners of Distance Education: A Case Study of IGNOU

Abstract

Education is the basic requirement for human development. With education, employment opportunities are broadened and income levels are increased. The development of an individual and the progress of a nation depend on education. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is one of the most rapidly growing fields of education which facilitates open entry and access to learning opportunities, enhances the employability skills of the learner and makes them to achieve their goals in life. Though the student’s enrollment in Higher Education through ODL system has increased, but the ODL institutions need to emphasize on student success rates. There are a number of factors that contribute toward better success rate. In this article one online survey was undertaken among successful learners of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) through Google form with questionnaires on their success factors. Their views are analyzed and found some important factors which are required to enhance the success rates of ODL institutions. It is very interesting to note that majority of learners (44%) developed their skills to do self-learning and 27% of learners developed an attitude of lifelong learning. 98% of successful learners acknowledged that the study material of IGNOU helped them greatly in earning their degrees. 95% learners viewed in favour of assignment components which are very helpful for Term-End-Examinations.

Keywords: ODL system, Success factors, successful learners, IGNOU