Abstract

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) has burgeoned as an essential educational avenue, providing a more inclusive and adaptable learning milieu to an array of students. In this digital era, the quality of online facilitation, especially the interaction dynamics between learners and facilitators, stands out as a critical component influencing the overall efficacy of ODL. This study sought to dissect the online interaction nuances within the National Open University of Nigeria's ODL frameworks. The study's primary focus revolved around evaluating the feedback provided by facilitators, gauging the effectiveness of learner support services, and understanding the perceived quality of online interaction between learners and facilitators. A survey-based approach was adopted, targeting learners within the institution. The survey aimed to gauge participants' experiences and perspectives regarding feedback, support services, and overall online interaction quality. Descriptive statistics, inferential analysis, and regression techniques were employed to explore relationships between variables and test postulated hypotheses. Results showed that majority of learners lean heavily towards mobile devices for online interactions, emphasizing the transition towards mobile learning. Feedback quality emerged as satisfactory, with the majority perceiving it as "Good" but hinting at areas for refinement. The quality of learner-facilitator interaction averaged 3.15 on a scale of 4, suggesting a commendable level of engagement but with room for elevation. Regression analysis further showed the pivotal role of feedback and learner support in shaping the quality of online interaction. The results underscore the imperative for ODL systems to perpetually evolve, adapting to learner preferences and ensuring an enriching, immersive, and responsive educational journey for all stakeholders.

Key Words: Online Communication, Online Facilitation, Learner Support Services, Feedback, Mobile Learning, Digital Education.

About the Authors

*      Adewale Adesina, Ph.D., is a Senior Lecturer in the Computer Science Department of the National Open University of Nigeria. He is also the Director, Learning Content Management System of the Institution. His research interests are in online platforms, interactions and learning.

**    Lukuman Bello, Ph.D., is a lecturer in the Faculty of Education of the National Open University of Nigeria. He also serves as an instructional designer in the Directorate of Learning Content Management Systems of the university.

^JCMR Journal of Communication and Media Research, Vol. 15, No. 2, October 2023, pp. 194-203.

© Association of Media and Communication Researchers of Nigeria (AMCRON).

Article Citation

Adesina, A. & Bello, L. (2023). An investigation of online communication feedback and interaction nuances in a Virtual Learning Environment. Journal of Communication and Media Research, 15 (2): 194-203.

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