Open and Distance Learning (ODL): A Veritable Tool for Reaching the U nreached in Nigeria

Abstract

Open and Distance Learning (ODL) ha<; become a critical part of modern education. This development is a result of technological advancement and increasing demand for skills retraining and upgrade. As compared to the traditional face-tojace classroom, open and distance education offers more flexible, free and easy access to students. Moreover, it has been proven over time that the conventional mode of education cannot cater for the entire student community, making open and distance education very essential. ODL brings knowledge to those learners who are ordinarily neglected by the conventional learning setting such as traders, entrepreneurs, prison inmates, people living in isolated areas like island<;, women whose culture or religion deprives of educational socialization, school dropouts, full time workers who want to further their education but are constrained by their jobs, and others. Hence, ODL offers a second chance and lifelong education for individuals while playing a crucial role in sustainable development. This paper examines the roles ODL plays in reaching the unreached in society with a view to encouraging its optimal deployment, in order to serve the educational need<; oft he masses.