Administrative Problems of Open Distance Education in Nigeria. a Case Study

Abstract The purpose of this study was to identify the administrative problems of open and distance education in Nigeria with particular reference to National Open University of Nigeria and to ascertain whether there is a significant difference between the administrative problems of National Open University in the two broad geo-political zones (Northern and Southern zone) of Nigeria. To guide the study, two research questions and one hypothesis were formulated. The study was carried out in all the study centres in the geo-political zones of Nigeria. The population of the study comprised of five administrative staff from each of the 26 study centres of National Open University of Nigeria, numbering 130, who also served as respondents. Questionnaire (NOUAPS) was used for data collection. The data generated were analysed with mean and t-test. It was found that there is no significant different between the administrative problems identified in the study centres of National Open University in the Northern and Southern geo political zones of Nigeria. The most serious problem identified is the administration of the study centres by people who lack sufficient experience in the field of educational administration to develop, maintain and manage exemplary programs. Recommendations were made based on the findings