Designing an effective instruction for Distance Education students: an andragogical approach

Abstract

The design of instructions in distance education differs significantly from that of on-campus study. This is because many factors had to be considered for its development. This paper tries to establish the theoretical formulations underpinning the design of instructional materials for distance education. It basically underscores the fact the student ought to be the centre of the design with the tutor understanding the student to the full – especially their learning orientations. The distance learner needs to be motivated to learn by the preparation of materials that are understandable, easy to assimilate and with clear and comprehensive guidelines. Instructional design is a process and a product. These ensure that the instruction is carefully designed, tested and developed according to specified procedures and practices that will help the student to learn. The objectivities argue that the environment is important in the design of the instruction while the constructionists acknowledge the methods through which the instructional design will be utilized. It is therefore important that in designing instruction, issues pertaining to self-directed learning and independent study are acknowledged as they relate to information processing and assimilation of facts.