Title:	SCREENCASTS: AUGMENTING LEARNING MATERIALS IN OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING
Author(s):	Janette Kruger
ISBN:	978-972-8939-31-1
Editors:	Piet Kommers, Tomayess Issa and Pedro Isaías
Year:	2010
Edition:	Single
Keywords:	M-learning; e-learning; screencasts; Open Distance Learning; multi-mode learning; Information Communication Technology
Type:	Short Paper
First Page:	272
Last Page:	276
Language:	English
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Paper Abstract:	Lack of internet access can be seen as one of the reasons contributing to the failure of the realization of the potential of e-learning in distance education. Mobile learning (m-learning) offers exciting opportunities to optimize communication between lecturers, facilitators and learners as mobile technologies offer learning opportunities to rural or remote learners without the infrastructure necessary for access to the internet. As communication and interaction are of pivotal importance in the learning process, m-learning can contribute towards the quality of education. The challenge for lecturers lies in embracing the strengths of mobile devices and designing learning materials that utilize the convenience, connectivity and personalization that such platforms offer. Screencasts can be a powerful tool in providing new and effective learning opportunities and may be an answer to the challenge of delivering supplementary instruction to students and facilitators in distance education. The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of facilitators regarding the implementation of screencasts in teaching and facilitating research methodology. The qualitative case study was conducted with a purposive sampling of 29 research methodology facilitators, at the School of Continuing Teacher Education at the North-West University, South Africa. An open-ended questionnaire was sent to the facilitators. Facilitators responded enthusiastically to the idea using screencasts as guidance to proposal writing. Overall the responses indicated that screencasts would assist them, with a cautionary note that the facilitator should not rely on the screencasts alone. Perceptions regarding the benefits of screencasts for students include screencasts could be a valuable resource for distance students enabling them to review a lecture at their own time and pace. Screencasts also have the potential to augment contact sessions and other learning material. The overall opinion was that screencasts would add considerable value to teaching and learning in Open Distance Learning. Internet access remains a problem, but the screencasts would be available on Mobi-site and on the computers at the study centers. Even though screencasts are a relatively new venture in Higher Education, they have the potential to provide constructive learning experiences for students with a combination of other learning materials and resources. The technology has the potential to personalize learning material, taking the “distance” out of distance education. It promises to provide students with choices and accommodate different learning styles, preferences and cognitive styles.
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