ODeL and Massification in Higher Education Institutions in Malawi: Challenges and Opportunities

The aim of the study was to examine how higher education institutions in Malawi are implementing quality assurance in the face of increased enrolment through among other means, Open, Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) by studying this intervention at Mzuzu University (MZUNI). The study focused on four main areas namely; perceptions of quality assurance in ODeL among faculty and students at Mzuzu University, quality Assurance strategies, challenges in implementing ODeL, and student experiences with ODeL in the context of increased enrolment. Empirical studies constantly showed that the number of students in higher institutions in Malawi was increasing from time to time, while stakeholders questioned the quality of the graduates of these institutions. In order to meet the main purpose of the study,mixed-methods approach to examine the implementation of quality assurance amidst increased enrollment in Open, Distance, and e-Learning (ODeL) at Mzuzu University (MZUNI) was employed. The study includes administrators, faculty members, students, and quality assurance officers as its participants, using stratified random sampling to ensure representation across these groups. Quantitative data were gathered through structured questionnaires administered to students and faculty, supplemented by qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews with administrators and quality assurance officers. Institutional documents and focus group discussions with students provided additional perspectives. Data analysis employed descriptive and inferential statistics for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically using NVivo software. The findings indicate moderate to high satisfaction among students and faculty regarding various aspects of ODeL quality assurance, yet reveal significant challenges such as resource limitations and resistance to change. Recommendations include tailored strategies to enhance technical support, faculty workload management, and overall quality assurance practices. This research contributes insights valuable for policymakers and educational leaders seeking to improve ODeL program quality amid expanding enrollment.