Access to Learning for Development: Mobile Technologies and Distance Learners in the Mountains of Lesotho

Abstract

PCF5: Cross-Cutting Theme // Goal 8 of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) identifies the advantages of new technologies, especially Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs). Lesotho together with other countries of the world is committed to procurement and utilisation of ICTs. The government recognises the crucial role that ICTs play in accelerating development in general and in education service provision in particular. At the same time, Lesotho acknowledges how ICTs can be used to support access to quality education necessary for sustainable economic development. This paper explores both tutor and student perspectives on the use of mobile technologies available to distance learners for support in the mountains of Lesotho. The study identifies maximum utilisation of mobile technologies by the tutors in the provision of learner feedback and counselling. Majority of the learners in the mountains of Lesotho prefer mobile phone over other means of communications as it seems reliable and convenient in terms of availability and cost effectiveness. The study highlights a number of infrastructural and geographical problems encountered by learners and tutors that impede effective use of technology to access learning and support. The papers recommends upgrading of infrastructural facilities such as electricity, roads and telecommunication lines necessary for tutors and learners to adequately exploit the use of mobile technologies in the distance learning context, and at the same time alleviate the obstacles to the application of technologies arising from underdevelopment itself. // Paper ID 134