Learning patterns of secondary school students in Ghana. Implications for Post-Secondary Distance Education

Abstract

Learning patterns differ significantly according to the personality and the environment in which one finds himself. In certain situations, the desire to accomplish an aim may make a person have a different way of studying. Also, significant people in one’s life can influence the way one learns. Using a sample size of 1182 the study covered size out of ten regions of Ghana. This article focuses on the various problems facing post-secondary students as they prepare for their studies. It was found out that majority of the students do not have fixed time of study, relied on tutor notes and group discussions for study. Only about 5% had computers in their homes and the average number of persons per household was around eight persons. The study concluded that the students lacked the self-confidence and self-motivation to study at a distance so needed orientation and study skills to effectively participate and complete the distance education programme.