Abstract:

Sri Lanka faces a continuing demand for qualified information technology professionals, creating a need for higher education programs that can operate at large scale. The Centre for Open and Distance Learning (CODL) at the University of Moratuwa addresses this requirement through the large-scale Bachelor of Information Technology delivered via the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode. While ODL enables universities to reach geographically dispersed learners, operating such programs with large enrolments can introduce significant financial and logistical challenges. Activities such as examination administration, student verification, material distribution, and learner support can generate substantial recurring costs when managed through traditional or manual processes. This paper examines how CODL has addressed these cost pressures through the targeted adoption of affordable digital technologies. The study adopts a case study approach based on institutional data, operational records, and implementation experiences.

One substantial cost factor in large ODL programs arises from assessment logistics. Traditional examination models require the printing of large volumes of question papers and answer scripts, secure transportation of materials, physical storage, and extensive manual coordination. CODL addressed these unnecessary overheads by adopting computer-based examinations through the learning management system Moodle. Digital examinations eliminate the need for large-scale printing and manual script handling while allowing automated grading and streamlined administrative workflows. The findings indicate a near 100% reduction in paper usage for question papers, alongside reduced processing time and operational overhead, while enabling examinations to scale efficiently to cohorts exceeding 1000 students. A detailed quantitative and qualitative cost–benefit analysis of these measures is presented in the paper.

Learner identification and authentication is another area where costs can increase rapidly in ODL environments. Conventional verification methods such as manual signature checks or photographic comparisons require extensive administrative effort and often slow down examination processes. To address this issue, CODL introduced an internally developed biometric thumbprint authentication mechanism. This low-cost solution enables rapid and reliable student verification while significantly reducing the staff time required for manual identity checks. Comparative analysis shows that this approach reduces verification time per student from approximately 20 seconds to 5 seconds. By automating this critical process, the institution has improved both efficiency and examination security without relying on expensive commercial systems. The paper further discusses these improvements.

Operational savings are also achieved through online academic interactions and remote learner support. Digital communication platforms allow tutoring and academic guidance to be delivered without the infrastructure, travel, and venue costs associated with large-scale physical sessions. The CODL experience demonstrates that carefully selected digital technologies can significantly reduce operational costs while supporting scalable ODL delivery, offering a practical model for institutions managing large distance education programs. The paper critically analyses these outcomes.

Keywords:

Open and Distance Learning, Digitalisation in Higher Education, Cost-Efficient Educational Technologies, Computer-Based Examinations, Biometric Student Authentication.