The Challenges and Prospects of the Transition to Open and Distance Learning in Higher-Education Institutions in Nigeria

E-learning has become a viable alternative for increasing educational access globally. In Nigeria, most universities offer face-to-face part-time programmes. In line with international best practices, and considering the need to attract a larger audience, the Centre for Distance Learning at Obafemi Awolowo University began transitioning the existing part-time programme from a face-to-face model to an e-learning model. The purpose of this study is to review the challenges encountered in the process of the transition, the students’ perception of the challenges and potentials of online delivery mode, and the probability of overcoming identified challenges. The paper explores most of the challenges of the transition process and the prospects of the e-learning programme. To present a holistic view of the challenges and prospects, a sample of one hundred fifty students in the part-time face-to-face programme were randomly selected. A self-designed questionnaire was administered to seek their opinion on the challenges and prospects of the e-learning programme. Most of the challenges encountered were classified as attitudinal, technical, technological, and financial. The students expressed their misgivings about the e-learning programme, noting technological access, quality and technical challenges associated with e-learning, especially in developing world. However, the respondents were of the opinion that those challenges are surmountable.