Greater Access to Higher Education through Communication Technologies in Sub-Saharan Africa: E-Learning Readiness of Distance Education Students in Nigeria

Abstract

This concurrent mixed methods study sought to determine e-learning readiness by distance education students in Nigeria based on their level of communication technology usage and perceptions of distance education delivery methods, and comparing learning experiences via the Internet and via study centre methods in Nigeria. This exploratory study using quantitative survey instrument measured the current levels of students’ technology usage, while qualitative interview instrument was used to examine students’ perceptions, attitudes and experiences of communication technology by distance education students in Nigeria. The results of this study reported high communication technology usage based on the high level of smart phone ownership and Internet browsing, high level of personal computer usage, high level of internet social networking, and high positive response for online learning, among other positive indicators. Consequently, the research findings seemed to indicate that distance education students surveyed are highly enthusiastic and are ready for e-learning in Nigeria.