Challenges for successful planning of open and distance learning (ODL) in a technology enhanced environment : a template analysis

Abstract

The planning of open and distance learning (ODL) facilities in higher education is not clearly described in the literature. A number of ODL facilities were not successful because of lack of planning or failure to ensure that all the different systems for ODL delivery were in place and functioning. This paper sheds light on how to plan strategically and how to implement an ODL facility at an existing university with reference to the role of technology in teaching and learning. I used a template analysis to construct a roadmap for ODL planners, as it lent itself to organising data from a large collection of articles, books and documents from 1980 to 2010. I purposefully chose template analysis as a document analysis process to foster the recurring themes found in published articles on planning and implementing ODL facilities in higher education. The results indicate four main strategies for successful implementation of an ODL facility. The template consists of strategic planning, policies, systems and challenges. The final template on ODL planning offers new insights on distance education. It could be used as a foundation for ODL planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Lastly, the template reflects the different challenges in ODL; it is recommended that consideration is given to the multiple technological changes influencing ODL. These technological changes need to be assessed as often as possible, and their influence on teaching and learning in ODL should inform future planning and development.