Students’ Responses on the Application of Active Learning Strategies in Open and Distance Learning (ODL): A Study on Bangladesh Open University (BOU)

Abstract

This study tries to ascertain the reactions of students toward the implementation of active learning strategies in the open and distance learning (ODL) environment. In order to investigate the real situation of active learning in the ODL environment, two research questions have been formulated in relation to the research title. The study has opted for a mixed-method research design. Data has been collected from students through the use of survey questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGDs). A total of 110 students completed the questionnaire in the survey. Convenience sampling was used to pick six students for FGD. The study’s findings indicate that faculty members are not consistently implementing active learning strategies due to institutional challenges and teachers’ personal motivation. Out of the 18 chosen active learning strategies, only a small number have been frequently used in the present classroom. About 50% of the active learning strategies are employed intermittently, and the remaining strategies are hardly or never used. The students express contentment with the implemented active learning practices in the classroom.