MODFL/Guide/Syllabus

The syllabus page provides a recommended schedule for completing the course. The MODFL course is a short course consisting of 4 Units. You should aim to spend 5 to 6 hours over 4 weeks to complete the course, at times which are convenient for your own schedule. Your time can also be spread over a period of 2 to 3 months, depending on the commitments you have. The time you spend completing the units will vary according to your existing digital skills and experience. You are free to study at your own pace and access to the materials will remain open.

The Mainstreaming Open Distance and Flexible Learning (MODFL) course comprises four units.

1. The first unit of the course highlights the problem of children who are out of school, out of training and out of any form of employment. It encourages learners to identify reasons why children and youth are out of formal schooling and training, especially girls. The chapter underscores the importance of policy in addressing this problem and in this regard, highlights the role of open schooling in addressing the problem of out of school children.
2. The second unit of the course is on the concept of ODL. It stresses the importance of making ODL open and flexible to broaden access. It also underscores the role of open schooling in accommodating learners with diverse needs. To make it attractive, ODL should be of high quality, comparable to traditional schooling. The unit highlights this all important aspect of quality distance learning. Unit Two also deals with theories underpinning ODL, from classical to modern theories.
3. The third unit presents a systems view of ODL. It draws learners’ attention to various models of ODL with a view to empowering them to make informed choices about which systems to use in their contexts. The Unit deals with ODL concerns that are commonly raised at macro, meso and micro level.
4. The last unit of the course discusses the role technology plays in rolling out ODL. Through this unit, it is envisaged that learners will appreciate the role technology plays in the evolution of ODL. This unit is meant to help learners identify and plan appropriate technology-enabled ODL systems in their countries.

You will engage in activity-based learning and do a quiz in each of the four units.

Week 1

Learning Challenge	Details
Establish a PLE	Orientation before course starts
Why Mainstream ODL?	Activities 1-5
Unit summary	Unit quiz

Week 2

Learning Challenge	Details
Understanding ODL	Activities 1-6
Unit summary	Unit quiz

Week 3

Learning Challenge	Details
A Systems View of ODFL	Activities 1-5
Unit summary	Unit quiz

Week 4

Learning Challenge	Details
Technology and Emerging Pedagogies	Activities 1-4
Unit summary	Unit quiz

When you have completed all four units you can complete the course assignment.