In every level, education is impacted through content and instructors’ skills while the learner must be ready and willing to learn either through face to face or through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) The learner’s persistence is enhanced by utilizing support services offered. In Kenya, the dropout rate among learners in ODL in public universities is alarming despite provision of the required support services. The study focused on assessing ODL 3rd year students’ utilization of instructional support services, with the aim: to determine the scope of utilization of instructional support services; resources, content delivery and assessment and its relationship with retention among learners in selected public universities in Kenya. Mixed method approach, having quantitative and qualitative data and a correlational research design were involved. Systematic and purposive sampling was done to obtain 424/1676 sample, (Students, lecturers & staff). The study established that the R2 value, strength of relationship on the utilization of instructional support and retention is: R2 =0.468, P=0.00. R2 inferred that 46.8% of the variations in learners’ retention in open and distance learning was explained by instructional support. The null hypothesis, HO that indicated there was no significant relationship between levels of learner utilization of instructional support and retention in ODL was rejected for alternative H1, there is a significant relationship. Recommendations includes: revival of regional centers for easier learner access and utilization of resources, increase online training programs, enhance face to face sessions for students’ clarification of academic issues and promote blended learning.

Authors:
Mary Wanderi, Karibaribi Secondary School/ Kenyatta University, Kenya

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Mary Nyakiringa Wanderi is a part time lecturer of educational management, in Kenyatta University, Kenya. When free, she reads educational materials and mentor students. Current research embrace support services of open and distant learners.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-wanderi-513239271/

Additional website of interest
https://focusjournals.org

See this presentation on the full schedule – Tuesday Schedule

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