Essay Factors Influencing Open Distance Learning

Factors influencing graduate employability within an open-distance learning (ODL) institution.

Introduction

Employability has many definitions, most of which encompass the idea that it is, “the propensity of students to obtain a job.” (Harvey, 2010) However, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) has given a formal definition of the word as, “Employability is the possession by an individual of the qualities and competencies required to meet the changing needs of employers and customers and thereby help to realise his or her aspirations and potential in work.” (Lindsay, 2004)

An open-distance learning (ODL) institution can be seen as an institution that provides education with the use of telecommunication. (Rouse, 2005) This means,

All assignments are individual assignments as students must learn to cope on their own. However, the upside to this type of studying is that students become independent, which in turn will benefit them in the future. (Unknown, Advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning, 2009)

• Format isn’t ideal for all learners- Students who lack thew motivation to study or procrastinate a lot, could battle with this form of studying. However, it does teach students time management which is vital in today’s working environment. (Unknown, Advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning, 2009)

• Requires adaptability to new technologies- Most of the courses offered by open-learning institutions, make use of internet and computers. Therefore, students would need access to those. However, in today’s day-and-age, all public libraries have computers with internet access and ODL institutions will also offer these facilities to their learners. (Unknown, Advantages and Disadvantages of Distance Learning, 2009)

2. Demographics (Age, Gender, Ethnicity, Location)

Demographics play a large part in employment of graduates in today’s working