Could you please give us a short description of your study?

Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John: This study is an attempt to evaluate the provisions for eLearning in Nigerian universities. Three universities located in the Lagos area were used as a sample. The work assessed the availability and adequacy of eLearning resources [human and material] and infrastructure against some minimum benchmarks for quality. Questionnaires, physical counting, and observations were used to gather information. From the findings, implications are drawn for quality development and assurance as regards adult learning.

Why did you choose these three universities to participate in your study?

Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John: These represent the three groups or types of universities in Nigeria: the University of Lagos is Federal, Lagos State University is state-run, and Covenant University is private. Incidentally, they are all located in the Lagos area, which leaves no room for bias in terms of urban or metropolitan environment.

From your point of view, what are appropriate provisions for eLearning at universities?

Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John: One would expect that appropriate provisions would include availability of the following eLearning technologies: multimedia CD-ROMs, MP3 players, websites, discussion boards, emails, computer-aided assessments, learning management software, blogs, etc.

What are the minimum benchmarks for quality in adult learning?

Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John: Looking at this from the standpoint of basic levels of what is necessary, one would want to see the available technologies in use complementing face-to-face teaching. In high-level use, they are relevant for open and distance education or learning, which is, in fact, the option open for adult learning.

Which recommendations for quality development and assurance can you gather from the results of your study?

Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John: The study has not been concluded. Results from one university have not been received. However, from the results obtained so far, recommendations will include:

• Provision of ICT infrastructure through university-private partnerships;
• Adequate funding provisions in terms of budgetary allocations;
• Virtual online connectivity of libraries in the country;
• Training and re-training of competent manpower for effectiveness;
• The National Universities Commission should ensure minimum standards in the provision of ICT materials as regards Distance Education and open learning institutions;
• An eLearning system is to be developed with the same concept of attaining assurance of quality in national education;
• Sufficient monitoring system be put in place