As part of efforts aimed at ensuring the acquisition of skills necessary to navigate the complexities of distance learning, and leverage technology to enhance educational experiences in virtual settings, the Distance Learning Institute (DLI), University of Lagos (UNILAG) has commenced a workshop for its facilitators and e-Tutors.
Themed “Navigating the Maze of Learning Management Systems and Strategies for Effective Remote Classroom Facilitation”, the workshop brought together educators and administrators in the field of open distance education to explore best practices, innovative strategies, and emerging technologies in learning management systems.
DLI facilitators were the focal point for the first day of the workshop on Thursday, December 7, 2023, as several topics were aptly addressed by different speakers at the Nurudeen Alao Auditorium, UNILAG, Akoka.
Leading the quartet of speakers, Deputy Director (Academic Planning & Development), Dr. Folashade Afolabi underscored the importance of blended learning to the practice of providing instruction and learning experiences through the combination of both face-to-face and technology-mediated learning.
Her presentation on Facilitation processes in the Blended Learning Environment (Face to Face; Zoom; Social; VLE) introduced participants to blended learning as well as challenges users may encounter when implementing a blended learning approach in their teaching practice.
Dr. Afolabi averred that students are not required to be physically together in one place during the technology-mediated components learning experiences. She urged lecturers to use the Zoom App maximally as the varsity has paid for its effective use to accommodate for long hours of teaching open distance learners.
Dr. Gbenga Eretan who spoke on the topic Synchronization activities of the Facilitator and e-Tutors towards achieving same goal pointed out key pathways to effectively impart students. His session covered pedagogical approaches for online teaching, student engagement in virtual classrooms, assessment and feedback mechanisms in remote learning, and leveraging multimedia resources for enhanced learning experiences.
On her part, Dr. Obby Modebelu presentation on “Preparation and Uploading of Facilitators plans for the session on the VLE” took the audience through some processes in order to help them navigate learning materials, engage with the content, and achieve their learning objectives. According to her, a facilitation plan serves as a roadmap for educators to orchestrate the learning experience in a way that promotes active participation and self-directed learning.
“…By outlining clear guidelines for communication channels, response times, and support mechanisms, the facilitation plan empowers both students and educators to effectively manage the asynchronous nature of open distance learning”.
A former Deputy Director of the Institute, Dr. Peter Layiwola, while addressing the topic Integrity and Academic Culture, posited that “Open Distance Learning (ODL) education has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility and accessibility which allows individuals to pursue education without the constraints of time and location”. He noted that the ODL mode of education however had unique challenges related to integrity and academic culture.
In his words “One of the primary challenges in ODL education is ensuring academic integrity. With the absence of physical supervision, there is a heightened risk of academic dishonesty, such as cheating and plagiarism. Students may be tempted to engage in unethical behaviors, especially when assessments are conducted remotely. Maintaining the integrity of assessments and ensuring that students adhere to ethical standards can be a significant challenge in ODL”.
Earlier in her remarks, the Director of UNILAG Distance Learning Institute (DLI), Professor Riskat Dauda welcomed the participants and assured them that the workshop would provide valuable insights associated with distance learning and remote classroom facilitation.
The next workshop which is for e-Tutors is scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, 2023.
