Research Article

Feedback Support in Open Distance e-Learning Higher Institution: Students' Analysis of Benefits and Challenges

Morakinyo Oludamilare Akintolu 1 * , George Fasinu 2, Philip Ahiaku 3
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1 Department of Educational Foundations, University of South Africa, Pretoria 0003, South Africa2 Department of Mathematics Education, University of South Africa, Pretoria 0003, South Africa3 Department of Educational Management, University of South Africa, Pretoria 0003, South Africa* Corresponding Author
International Journal of Social Sciences and Artistic Innovations, 6(2), June 2026, 1-13, https://doi.org/10.35745/ijssai2026v06.02.0006
Submitted: 24 April 2025, Published: 30 June 2026
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ABSTRACT

This study was motivated by the increased in the reliance on Open-Distance Learning (ODL) institutions as an alternative to face-to-face learning.  Many students are engaging in ODL, so there is a need to assess students’ responses about experiences, benefits, and challenges. For the study, a quantitative research approach used among undergraduate students pursuing varying bachelor’s degrees in an ODL institution. There were 384 responses to the online survey, and the result was analysed using a descriptive and inferential data analysis. The findings revealed that students perceived feedback to be beneficial to their studies, especially in support of navigating the Learning Management System (LMS), helping with coursework, and navigating academic material online, including books and journals. However, some students were dissatisfied with the feedback received during the administration and preparation of examinations. Most of the challenges have to do with the attitude of staff in providing timely feedback. We discuss implications for ODL institutions.
Keywords: Feedback support, Open distance learning, Higher institution, ODL students, Experiences, Challenges

CITATION (APA)

Akintolu, M. O., Fasinu, G., & Ahiaku, P. (2026). Feedback Support in Open Distance e-Learning Higher Institution: Students' Analysis of Benefits and Challenges. International Journal of Social Sciences and Artistic Innovations, 6(2), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.35745/ijssai2026v06.02.0006

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