Improving ICT for ODL in the UNISA Department of Public Administration

Abstract

The University of South Africa (UNISA) is a comprehensive open and distance learning (ODL) institution that aims to be the premier online teaching and eLearning institution of choice. This article presents a case study of the Department Public Administration in UNISA with regard for the expansion of ODL practices to improve online teaching and eLearning. The purpose of this article is firstly to recommend that the teaching and learning methods presently used by the Department of Public Administration (UNISA) should be combined with more interactive technology-enriched teaching and learning methodologies so that the department can “be ahead of the game” when it comes to online teaching and eLearning.. The significance of this study is to improve Public Administration teaching and learning by the Department of Public Administration (UNISA) through creating a virtual study environment and in ensuring the department becomes a fully fourth and fifth generation ODL provider. This includes an explanation of the blended use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) tools such as interactive satellite-based platforms, web-based management system and social networks, as mechanisms for improving online teaching and eLearning methodologies in Public Administration.