Exploring the role of Technical Vocational Education and Training college management in utilising Learning Management Systems
Loading...
Date
2024
Authors
Mthabela, Sibongile Mirriam
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the role of Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college management in utilising Learning Management Systems (LMSs). A sample of 6 TVET managers was conveniently selected from a TVET college in a rural area in South Africa using a qualitative approach. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis. For many years South African TVET Colleges have not been using Learning Management Systems to support teaching and learning. However, recently these institutions have introduced LMSs; hence, it became necessary to unpack the role of TVET College Management in utilising these systems. The TVET college management needs to fulfil their roles since it is part of their responsibilities to ensure that LMSs at these institutions are used efficiently to enhance TVET college results. Lecturers and students must be supported by management to ensure the efficient usage of the LMS. This study was underpinned by the Technology Acceptance Theory which was appropriate to evaluate the level of technology acceptance by the lecturing staff and college management. I analysed policies that have an impact in the way in which TVET colleges should function in line with the introduction of Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), in addition to conducting a comparative study of LMS usage in America, Europe and Africa. A qualitative research approach was adopted to generate data from a selected sample of 6 participants from the campus management team. The findings revealed that management did not have clearly defined role-functions to support LMS at campuses, and that there were numerous challenges confronting the application of LMSs, especially that of not being fully utilised. Emanating from the findings and conclusions of this study, it is recommended that intensive support be provided for lecturers by college management including ongoing on-the-job training and availability of relevant resources to circumvent the challenges. College management needs to implement creative strategies to ensure that LMS is thoroughly and correctly implemented to yield enhanced academic results.
Description
Dissertation (M.Ed.(Education Management and Leadership))--University of the Free State, 2024
Keywords
College management, Learning Management Systems, Technical and Vocational Education and Training, Technological innovation, Workplace experience