Towards a Paradigm Shift from Andragogy to Heutagogy: Learners’ Utilization of Online Resources at the Institute of Adult Education

Abstract

The study explored learners’ utilization of online resources with a view to shade some light on a paradigm shift from andragogy to heutagogy. The specific objectives were;- first to explore the learners’ capabilities in utilizing online resources and second to assess institutional mechanisms in supporting a paradigm shift from andragogy to heutagogy. The study was conducted at the Institute of Adult Education in Morogoro Campus. It employed a qualitative research approach and case study design. The respondents were;- 33 ODL Students, one librarian and one ICT specialist. The participants were obtained through purposive sampling procedure. Data collection methods were; open-ended questionnaires, documentary review, semi-structured interview, observation and focus group discussions. Gathered data were analysed using thematic and descriptive analysis. The findings revealed that; students with prior ICT experience were capable of utilizing e-materials effectively than those with no prior experience. Moreover, the study noted some of critical challenges facing librarian and ICT specialist in supporting students such as: most of the students were not aware of free e-libraries; insufficient of e- materials, lack of internet connectivity and absence of computer laboratory. The study concludes that, effectiveness of the paradigm shift to heutagogy depends much on the learner’s capability in ICT skills and institutional support services.