Abstract:

The paper is set to map e-learning as a transformational educational tool amongst Communication Science students at Unisa. To achieve the stated aim, the study set out to investigate students’ use of Unisa’s e-learning forum called myUnisa. The problem that was investigated pertains to students’ inadequate use of e-learning. This paper is informed by Paulo Freire’s dialogic communication which focuses on the premise that in order for communication to be effective, it has to be participatory, dialogic and reciprocal. Freire places great emphasis on the educator as initiator of the conscientisation and dialogue process. This theory is relevant in this study because of the dialogue that e-learning is intended to create with students. The study targeted executive members of the Communication Science Association (COMSA) which consists of ten members and Unisa Radio employees which comprise 200 Communication Science students. COMSA is an association formed for undergraduate Communication Science students and Unisa Radio is a student radio station. A survey research design was used whereby questionnaires were administered to all COMSA executives and 50% of Unisa Radio student employees who were chosen using simple random sampling. The data gathered was analysed through thematic categorisation and tabulation and the findings were presented descriptively.

An examination of data indicates that students do not actively engage in e-learning. They use myUnisa for basic educational needs and not for the purpose that myUnisa was intended which is to bridge transactional distance in order to ensure increased engagement amongst all stakeholders. Unisa needs to examine its current e-learning policies against the backdrop of the society in which it operates. It is in this light that the paper recommends that an in-depth study be conducted to ascertain core issues in respect of why students do not engage actively in what is meant to promote a deep learning experience.

Keywords:

open distance learning (odl), e-learning, dialogue, transactional distance, icts in higher.