An Evaluation of Technical-Vocational Education and Training in Open and Distance Learning Institutions: A Case of Zimbabwe Open University

摘要

The study is an evaluation of how Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) aspects are conducted in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) institutions. ODL is usually criticised for not doing enough in vocational skills development. This study was a qualitative research where course designers, lecturers and students (10) were purposively sampled and interviewed. ODL learning materials were analysed, evaluated and synthesised. The objective of this study was to solicit participants’ opinions on how TVET oriented programmes were in line with entrepreneurial skills development for employment creation. Content analysis was used to draw up meanings of verbal data. The major challenge identified was that ODL institutions do not have infrastructure like conventional institutions, and that limits supervision of practical activities. This study will benefit policy-makers and planners of ODL programmes. Further research would put into perspective strategies that could be employed by ODL institutions to enhance entrepreneurial skills development for employment creation.