Factors that Hinder Students Benefitting from Videoconference Broadcast Services

Abstract

Unisa has over the years introduced videoconference discussion classes to support its students. However, there has been poor attendance of such classes by the students in Ekurhuleni regional service centre. A quantitative research through surveys was conducted with 88 students whose modules were offered via videoconference broadcast at Unisa’s Ekurhuleni regional service centre during the first semester of 2012. The purpose of the study was to investigate the factors that hinder students from benefitting from videoconference broadcast services. It was found that many students did not attend these classes mainly because they did not receive notification about such classes. Some of those who received notification could not attend due to various reasons. The researchers found that there are three main factors that hinder students from benefitting from videoconference services - environmental, institutional and personal factors. It was found that there is not much Unisa can do about environmental factors. However, in order to mitigate institutional factors, the researchers recommend that Unisa introduce integrated and automated communication systems to inform students about videoconference discussion classes. Various technological software and adequate videoconference infrastructures are also recommended. With regard to personal factors, Unisa needs to increase students’ awareness and utilization of other services such as counselling which are aimed at helping them cope with their studies.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n1p497