IRM4729 ASSIGNMENT 4 2025 (Answer Guide) – Due 10 October 2025

IRM4729 ASSIGNMENT 4 2025 (Answer Guide) – Due 10 October 2025 Contents The Impact of e-Learning on Open Distance Learning in Higher Education: Examining Its Role in Accessibility and Effectiveness 3 Chapter 1: Introduction 3 1.1 Introduction and background 3 1.2 Problem statement 3 1.3 Aim of the study 4 1.4 Research questions 4 1.5 Objectives 4 1.6 Brief overview of proposed methodology 5 1.7 Conceptual/theoretical framework 6 1.8 Definition of key terms and concepts 6 1.9 Significance of the study 7 1.10 Scope and delimitations 7 1.11 Expected limitations 7 1.12 Ethical considerations (brief) 8 1.13 Overview of the chapters (alignment with assignment brief) 8 Chapter 2: Literature Review 8 2.1 Introduction and purpose of the review 8 2.2 Conceptual and policy foundations 9 2.3 Theoretical lenses for interpreting accessibility and effectiveness 9 2.4 Evidence on e-learning effectiveness in higher education 10 2.5 Accessibility: conditions that enable or constrain participation 10 2.6 Design and pedagogy in e-learning (what works) 11 2.7 Support systems and learning analytics in ODeL 12 2.8 South African evidence and contextual considerations 12 2.9 Gaps in the literature 13 2.10 Conceptual framework for this study 13 2.11 Summary 14 Chapter 3: Research Methodology 14 3.1 Introduction 14 3.2 Research paradigm and design 15 3.3 Population and sampling 15 3.4 Data collection methods 16 3.5 Data analysis 17 3.6 Validity, reliability and trustworthiness 18 3.7 Ethical considerations 18 3.8 Anticipated limitations 19 3.9 Summary 19 Chapter 4: Expected Results and Contribution 19 4.1 Introduction 19 4.2 Alignment with research questions and objectives 20 4.3 Expected quantitative findings (Phase 1) 20 4.4 Expected qualitative findings (Phase 2) 22 4.5 Integrated interpretation via the conceptual frameworks 23 4.6 Practical contribution: Recommendations for UNISA and the ODeL sector 23 4.7 Measurement and monitoring: Proposed indicators 24 4.8 Theoretical and methodological contribution 24 4.9 Risks, limitations and alternative interpretations 25 4.10 Summary 25 Chapter 5: Conclusions and Recommendations 26 5.1 Introduction 26 5.2 Summary of the study 26 5.3 Conclusions 26 5.4 Recommendations 27 5.5 Implications for theory and practice 28 5.6 Directions for further research 28 5.7 Closing statement 29 References 29