Page 31 - EDUCON 2022 Book of Abstracts

20. Shihomeka, S.P., Resilience and adaptability to technologies:
influence of a digital divide on online and distance education
assessment tools in Namibia
Background: In recent years, online and distance education became
alternative learning routes for many students at tertiary institutions.
Many of these institutions use MOODLE as a Learning Management
System to distribute learning materials, submission of assignments as
well as distribution of feedback from lecturers to students. For some
modules, courses as well programs, tests and examinations are being
carried out on these platforms.
Aim: The study aimed to assess the influence of a digital divide of
online and Distance Education assessment tools, using an
autobiographical enquiry of three local institutions of higher learning.
Methodology: The study used a systematic review process to gather
and analyse data.
Results: The review revealed that educational services online to both
rural and urban students remain a contestable issue not only in
Namibia but in Africa. The high poverty rate, unequal distribution of
country’s resources are some factors contributing to the accessibility
of Internet services. Students living in urban areas where there is
adequate network coverage cannot make use of it because they do not
own gadgets to access e-learning platforms.
Recommendations: Further research in institutions of higher learning
needs to be explored unexplored to identify and address both urban
and rural distance students’ challenges preventing them from
participating in education.

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