Preference for and Utilisation of Digital Technology by Women Learners of IGNOU

Abstract

India has a disparity in educational and economic development in different regions of the country. Irrespective of such class-based divisions in society, there are sections of people such as women across all classes who cannot actively participate in the country’s economic activities. Existing research says that the ODL system can help women continue their education for active participation in the country’s economic activities. The present study addresses the issue of using technology tools that increase women’s access to and involvement in continuing their education for development. The study investigated digital utilization preferences for and prospects of ODL system. 500 female students were conveniently selected from IGNOU study centres. The data collected covered their ODL related digital technology preferences as well as perceptions relating to the ODL system. Factor analysis was performed to gain insights into the digital technology and ODL system preferences of female learners. The study identifies a synergistic triangular space of digital technology preferences – enclosed by selflearning, teaching-learning and social learning. It also reveals threepronged perceptions of female learners towards digital technology intensive ODL systems comprising advantages, learning difficulties, and technical challenges. The findings are expected to help both policy makers and educators to make the ODL system serve the purpose empowering women in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goal 2030.