Blended learning is the new buzzword in higher education. International trends in open and distance learning proclaim that the use of blended learning is essential for any distance education institution that wishes to remain relevant in an increasingly contested market. Blended learning refers to the use of a variety of technologies, pedagogies, contexts and delivery modes (such as online learning) to create a strategic mix that will increase student success. Online learning environments form a crucial part of any blended learning strategy. In the South African context, access to such online environments is a controversial issue.This article reports on a study which attempted to determine how many of the students registered for Accounting at second year level at the University of South Africa (UNISA) would benefit from a blended learning approach.
Online student support is frequently used by distance education institutions worldwide, but in South Africa it remains a challenge to educators as not all students have access or can afford using the internet regularly. However, as most students at the University of South Africa (Unisa), a distance education institution, have mobile phones, opportunities emerge for academics to make use of social media. Accounting lecturers incorporated a number of social media applications into a second-year module and on the basis of the evidence provided it is evident that using social media can enhance the teaching and learning of Accounting.
The University of South Africa (Unisa), as a distance education institution, is continuously challenged to lessen the negative impact distance has on students' learning. The effective use of technologies affords distance education institutions with valuable opportunities to enhance teaching and support students' learning. Using online technologies in the context of a developing country like South Africa often remains unrealised because of the persistent impact of lack of access, bandwidth and cost to students. Most students, however, have mobile phones, thus creating an ideal opportunity for distance education institutions to increase the effectiveness of learning.This article investigated students' responses to a pilot study aimed at integrating short message systems (SMSs) into the study experience of accounting students at Unisa. This research found that students overwhelmingly experienced this initiative not only as support but also more importantly as assistance to enable them to study more effectively. On the basis of the evidence provided, it is evident that using mobile technology can enhance the learning experience of accounting students and provide them with a more satisfying and successful experience.
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