Strengthening Distance Education Delivery to Adult Learners in Higher Education Institutions in Ghana

Abstract

Distance education is witnessing increasing participation in Ghana, fuelled by the deployment of information communication technology (ICT) in higher education institutions (HEIs). Many universities, hitherto single delivery mode, are now delivered through ICT teaching and learning tools as adapting blended approaches to distance students. Despite the potentials of ICT teaching and learning making adult learners self-directed, they are fraught with challenges. This review theorizes distance education delivery. First, a summary of the wider context of distance learning was made. Second, assemblage theory was explored in relation to distance education (or ICT enhanced) delivery. Third, the Ghanaian case study was explored in context. Last, there is a critical gaze on how governments in developing countries partner higher education institutions by providing laptops, and resolving other challenges related to distance learning delivery to adult learners. This initiative supports the digitisation process, self-directed, and lifelong learning that drives economies.