Learner Support Services in Open Distance Learning System: Case Study on IGNOU

Learner support services are the most vital component of any open and distance learning (ODL) system. It includes wide range of academic and other related activities. The support services should not only be responsive to the needs of the distance learners but should also be accessible. Monitoring of the support services has to be a continuous and ongoing exercise, which could bring constant improvement through innovations in the support services. This paper analyzes the aim of learner support services, various categories of learner support services, how far Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has providing interactive support services at the study centres, staff responsibility for providing the services, ICT facilities and equipment at the study centres, mode of service delivery and monitoring mechanism to ensure effective student support services