Perception of Postgraduate Distance Learners on the Virtual Examinations of the National Open University of Nigeria

Abstract

PCF10 Sub-theme: Fostering Lifelong Learning // As the extension of the lockdown period of Covid-19 that was declared as a pandemic persisted, the problem of conducting face-to-face teaching-learning process was overcome with online classes. Examinations that are used to make decisions about an individual learner’s progress could not hold as the pandemic continued. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) being an open and distance learning institution came up with the resolution of conducting on-demand virtual examinations for distance learners in 2020 but a few numbers of them participated and this called for attention. The study investigated perception of distance learners of the NOUN on the virtual examinations. The descriptive survey design was adopted and 247 participants of the NOUN were randomly sampled in all the six geo-political zones. Two research questions were stated to guide the study. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire. Reliability and validity of the instrument were ensured. Data obtained were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed that majority of the respondents perceived the virtual examination to be highly beneficial, secure and credible and devoid of missing scores, immoral and unethical practices. It was recommended that university authorities should embrace the new norm of global digital development to be relevant for quality virtual examinations. // Paper ID 8986