Rationale for the Programme
The programme was designed for the development of skills in research and evaluation skills for open and distance learning practitioners. Graduates will be equipped to manage specific DE projects in their area of operation and to develop a comprehensive perception of the link between ODL practices and national areas of interest such as alleviation of poverty, increasing access to vocational training, and enhancing opportunities of employment.
Programme Structure
The curriculum is arranged into two parts as follows:
Part1: Fundamentals of Open and Distance Learning.
Part 2: Research in Open and Distance Learning.
Each Part is to be completed in one semester
The programme carries 120 credits
PREST - Curriculum Structure
Semester 1 |
Credits |
Cluster 1: |
20 |
Defining distance learning |
|
Open and distance learning in new environments |
|
Managing the distance education system |
|
Cluster 2: |
20 |
Open and distance learning study materials |
|
Supporting the distance education learner |
|
Communication in distance education |
|
Cluster 3: |
20 |
Distance education systems in Southern Africa |
|
Challenges and the future of distance education |
|
Facing the challenges, the Malawi experience |
|
Semester 2 |
|
Cluster 4: |
20 |
The distance education practitioner |
|
What is research? |
|
Why do research? |
|
Cluster 5: |
20 |
Research or evaluation? |
|
Different methodological stances |
|
The range of research areas and topics |
|
Cluster 6: |
20 |
External forces that shape the evaluation agenda |
|
Starting to map out your own research project |
|
Research paper or article |
|
Total Credits |
120 |