STUDENTS' PERSPECTIVES ON THE QUALITY OF DISTANCE LEARNING MATERIALS IN SELECTED HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS IN ETHIOPIA

Successful Open and Distance Learning relies on well-developed Self-Instructional Materials, crucial for facilitating self-directed learning. Effective self-instructional materials convey knowledge, motivate learners, and reduce the need for extensive support services. This research examined the effectiveness of distance learning materials in selected Ethiopian higher education institutions, focusing on their ability to sustain student engagement through self-study. This study adopted a mixed methods approach to collect data through questionnaires from 175 students. The findings revealed that, apart from one private institution, the selected institutions failed to develop effective self-instructional distance learning materials. To address challenges, staff in higher education institutions should receive intensive training on developing and evaluating ODL materials, and HEls should develop course materials that promote effective self-learning.