ENG1503 Academic Language and Literacy in English
Assignment 02 Semester 01 2025
Unique number: 802988
, The Role of Non-Sanctioned Multimedia Platforms in Open Distance e-Learning
(ODeL)
Introduction
The rapid growth of digital technology has transformed the way students engage with
learning materials, particularly in Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL). Non-sanctioned
multimedia platforms such as podcasts, vodcasts, WhatsApp, and Telegram have
become popular supplementary tools in higher education. These platforms offer
students additional learning resources and support their academic success. Drawing
from the work of Mohale (2023) and other scholars, this essay argues that these tools
enhance accessibility, foster engagement, and provide flexible learning opportunities.
However, despite their benefits, challenges such as technological barriers and limited
real-time interaction must also be considered.
Enhancing Accessibility and Learning Flexibility
One of the main advantages of non-sanctioned multimedia platforms is their ability to
provide students with flexible access to academic content. Unlike traditional printed
study materials, podcasts and vodcasts allow students to learn at their own pace,
revisiting lectures and complex topics as needed (Mohale, 2023). This is particularly
beneficial in ODeL institutions, where students often juggle work, family responsibilities,
and studies. According to Wentzel and de Hart (2020), students in distance education
prefer learning materials that fit into their schedules, and multimedia resources provide
this flexibility. Research also shows that these platforms help bridge geographical and
technological divides, ensuring that students, regardless of their location, have access
to educational content (Mohale, 2023; Wentzel & de Hart, 2020).
Increasing Student Engagement and Participation
Assignment 02 Semester 01 2025
Unique number: 802988
, The Role of Non-Sanctioned Multimedia Platforms in Open Distance e-Learning
(ODeL)
Introduction
The rapid growth of digital technology has transformed the way students engage with
learning materials, particularly in Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL). Non-sanctioned
multimedia platforms such as podcasts, vodcasts, WhatsApp, and Telegram have
become popular supplementary tools in higher education. These platforms offer
students additional learning resources and support their academic success. Drawing
from the work of Mohale (2023) and other scholars, this essay argues that these tools
enhance accessibility, foster engagement, and provide flexible learning opportunities.
However, despite their benefits, challenges such as technological barriers and limited
real-time interaction must also be considered.
Enhancing Accessibility and Learning Flexibility
One of the main advantages of non-sanctioned multimedia platforms is their ability to
provide students with flexible access to academic content. Unlike traditional printed
study materials, podcasts and vodcasts allow students to learn at their own pace,
revisiting lectures and complex topics as needed (Mohale, 2023). This is particularly
beneficial in ODeL institutions, where students often juggle work, family responsibilities,
and studies. According to Wentzel and de Hart (2020), students in distance education
prefer learning materials that fit into their schedules, and multimedia resources provide
this flexibility. Research also shows that these platforms help bridge geographical and
technological divides, ensuring that students, regardless of their location, have access
to educational content (Mohale, 2023; Wentzel & de Hart, 2020).
Increasing Student Engagement and Participation
