Higher Education Through Distance Learning In Pakistan

Abstract

One of the vital purposes of higher education is conducting research and that may be a way that leads a nation to progress. With the advent of advanced technology, predominantly Information Communication Technologies the importance of Distance Education has increased day by day. Many nations have established their ODL universities and developed countries of the world like Australia, UK, USA, Canada boast leading distance universities. The aim of the present study was to identify the opinions of the students who were enrolled at higher education level through distance learning. For this study, the students of M.Phil leading to Ph.D were selected as participants. A questionnaire, consisting 10 items was developed; which determined the view of students about higher education, education through distance and quality of education through distance learning. Each statement of the questionnaire was checked by applying chi square technique, and the respondents confirm that higher education is very important although at the same time it was observed that higher education through distance learning is challenging. The respondents also described that assignments and workshops which are necessary components of distance learning were of much importance for enhancing knowledge and proved very helpful for exam preparation. The study revealed that the learners were well aware of the importance of higher education in the matter of equivalence of distance education with formal education. Distance mode of education in Pakistan is going to be successful and it possesses all the requirements of delivery of effective education.