Information Requirements Of Administrators In A Distance Education Institution: The Universitas Terbuka Case

Zuhairi, Aminudin (1987) Information Requirements Of Administrators In A Distance Education Institution: The Universitas Terbuka Case. Masters thesis, Simon Fraser University.

Preview

Text (thesis) 40090.pdf - Submitted Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (4MB) | Preview

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to identify what information administrators at the Universitas Terbuka (UT) required for various management, planning and other purposes, and to suggest the frequency, format, and other conditions, under which the information might be provided. The study was important, firstly, because, although any institution requires the best possible information upon which to base its activities, a distance education institution may have information needs different than a conventional one. Secondly, UT, as a new institution is in particular need of a sound information base. The available literature on information uses and requirements has mostly dealt with conventional colleges and universities. Little research has been undertaken in the area of distance education. Moreover, the research has been conducted mainly in developed countries that have problems, goal emphases, management styles, and decision making processes different than institutions in underdeveloped countries. To obtain the required data, two instruments were used, a quesionnaire and a semi structured interview. The questionnaire was designed to identify information needs of the UT administrators on such matters as student and staff demographies, student performances, courses and so forth. The interview was intended to clarify and expand on certain aspects of the data provided by the questionnaire. The results of the study indicated a demand for a number of information categories by administrators. The information would be used for a variety of purposes: operation, control, planning, policy making, and so forth. Administrators' information needs varied in terms of frequency and format. The numerical nature of the information required the presentation of graphs, matrices, and tables. In providing the information, care should be given to the complexity of administrators' preferences, needs, and the significance of the information. Cost and resources available should also be considered. A fact book format was recommended for easy access by administrators, external agencies, and the public.

Actions (login required)

View Item