The main principle of openness in education is to address the fundamental right of access to education. Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) Open Distance and e-Learning directorate provides a platform on which all faculty use to engage students who are both on-campus and off-campus through a combination of various teaching and learning methods like online learning, blended learning, distance learning open learning among others modes of delivery.
We note that classroom based delivery of teaching and learning may not reach a large number of students as expected who are willing to study. Therefore the directorate leverages on the benefits of Open, distance and online education as a feasible approach to learning.
FACTS
1. Open, distance and e-Learning is about access, affordability and flexibility for the learners
2. Over the recent past, enrollment to online courses and programs has rapidly expanded
3. Head of Cambridge university’s judge Business school observed that “today, a university that is not online is invisible”
The use of technology to enhance learning is increasingly becoming embedded in the way students learn. This reality informed the establishment of the Directorate of Open, Distance and e-Learning at Meru University of Science and Technology in 2011, charged with responsibility over ODeL matters as stipulated under MUST Statute XXV.
The Directorate was established as a synergy among the major stakeholders in order to achieve the mission and vision of the University. The directorate is accountable for all online/ blended programme management and delivery process to provide all necessary learner support services. Details of the constitution and roles of the ODeL Committee are outlined in the MUST Statutes.
Vision
A provider of high-quality education, lifelong learning opportunities through open, distance and eLearning that addresses national, regional and global needs of our clients and stakeholders.
Mission
To apply leading technologies in instructional delivery, assessment and efficient management of Open Distance and eLearning programmes.