Experiences of Adult Learners Using Sakai Learning Management System in Learning in Ghana

Abstract

The advancement in information and communication technology (ICT) and its application as teaching and learning tools has taken learning to a higher level. Innovations in ICT and its deployment in teaching and learning are aiding adult learning by distance education mode. Accra Learning Centre hosts the biggest students’ population pursuing degree programmes by distance education mode in Ghana. A simple descriptive statistics were adopted to help build a case in using the qualitative data. A descriptive narrative design was employed for conducting the study which tilt towards qualitative case study approach to investigate meanings and experiences adult learners have had when,– using the Sakai Learning Management System platform. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data from 50 adult learners who participated in the study. Most (80%) of the learners indicated that they faced difficulties, including accessing computers, course materials online, weak link, poor network interface and connectivity, as well as power fluctuations when they started learning with the Sakai Learning Management System, which changed with time. The ICT platform created greater access to self-learning. The study concludes that the ICT laboratories should be refurbished – and installed with new computer accessories – for increased access to Sakai Learning Management System to learn.