Distance learners' use of Electronic resources at College of Education, University of Rwanda

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examined the distance learners’ use of electronic resources at College of Education, University of Rwanda. Specifically, the study determines the types of electronic resources used by distance learners; the purpose of using of electronic resources among distance learners; and challenges faced by distance learners in the usage of electronic resources. The study used descriptive research design. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Primary data was collected from questionnaires, face-to-face interviews and field observations while secondary data was collected through documentary review. The analysis of quantitative data was done using Statistical Product and Services Solutions (SPSS) version 21 and Microsoft Office Excel 2010, while, qualitative data was analyzed by using thematic analysis technique. The study findings show underutilisation of the electronic resources by distance learners as few of them indicated using e-journals, scholarly online databases and institutional repositories, with reliance in the use of search engines. Findings show that the major purposes of using e-resources among respondents are to support assignments and recreational purposes, with the least use being supporting literature review, and preparation of workshop/seminars. These findings show that distance learners do not make effective use of e-resources to support learning and research although majority of them indicated to be satisfiedwith the e-resources. Additionally, lack of access to the internet, expensive internet, financial constraints, slow internet access speed, poor network infrastructure and limited number of computers are among the major factors that hinder distance learners from proper and effective usage of the electronic resources for academic purposes. Based on the findings, the study recommends provision of training on effective use of the internet to distance learners, awareness creation on variousscholarly online resources to support learning, and provision of sufficient, faster, reliable and free internet access to distance learners.