http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7395 Sat, 04 Apr 2026 01:18:15 GMT 2026-04-04T01:18:15Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7398 Title: Examination Administration Practices in College of Open and Distance Learning (CODL) of St. Mary’s University: Implication to Quality Assurance: The Views of CODL Staff Authors: Girma, Melaku Abstract: The intent of the study is to explore the situation of exam administration practices in CODL, SMU from staff perspectives. An exam malpractice has advanced into a lucrative and organized criminal activity. This is a problem which is not restricted to any one country, but that of global proportions. For exam in ODL to solve the very important purpose for which it is meant to serve, considerations should be given to security. ODL institutions must try to ensure the maintenance of high standards in the conduct of exams. Hence, there is a need for the institutions to embrace exam ethics. This is done via very high level of professional and administrative resources. Likewise, this brings pressure to bear on the CODL, SMU to maintain proper security, before, during and after examinations. To this effect, areas of concern include, but not limited to, developing regulations, producers, and guidelines; appointing staff of high integrity as supervisors; arranging important monitoring of examination venues; applying sanctions when necessary; and planning and initiating on-line assessments. Finally, invigorating the exercise of writing reports is very important. Sat, 20 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7398 2022-08-20T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7397 Title: Digital and Social Media Usage for Academic Purpose among Distance Learners in selected Higher Education Institutions in Addis Ababa: Practices and Challenges Authors: Adela, Manaye Abstract: Distance education is demanding connection and communication while learners are physically in a dispersed location from the center of the institution. In such platforms, communication, and technological means, digital media is the most important which takes place in nearly all activities. The main aim of this study was to assess digital media usage and challenges in distance learning. The digital era has brought the dynamics in learning and assessment by using digital media and social networking. Stratified random sampling was used for selecting 198 participants. The strata were made in academic year level and department. The descriptive survey design was implemented with a mixed approach. Questionnaire and interview were tools for data gathering. Numerical analysis was done for the data from questionnaire and thematic analysis was used for qualitative data from the interview. The study unveiled that digital media usage creates ease of learning and enhances better access to reference materials and sample exam questions in electronic copy. Telegram, YouTube, and Facebook are mostly used in distance learning systems through computer and smartphone gadgets. The most commonly found challenges are connection-related; internet cost-related challenges; source less credibility and less trustworthiness (both on telegram and YouTube); data management-related challenges; gadget-related challenges and difficulty in using digital devices; application-related difficulties; difficulties related to Computer-Mediated Communication due to technology literacy related problem. It is conceivable to deliver education for distance learners by expanding and providing digital media platforms. Sat, 20 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7397 2022-08-20T00:00:00Z http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7396 Title: Customer Satisfaction Survey of St. Mary’s University Distance Students: SERVQUAL Model Analysis Authors: Tamiru, Behailu Abstract: Higher education is facing pressure to improve value in its activities. As private universities are striving to maintain the quality of education, the evaluation of customers’ perceptions is essential to provide motivation for and to give feedback on the effectiveness of educational plans and implementation for them. The purpose of this study is to find out the students’ perceptions as well as the level of satisfaction with the open and distance education at St. Mary University in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This research began with the basic SERVQUAL survey instrument based on what students deem to be of high importance. A survey conducted over 373 students from different CODL centers located in different parts of the country and collected data by using a questionnaire that includes 22 items about the various aspects of higher education. Gap scores were calculated for different dimensions of service quality and found empathy registered the largest gap score of -1.017 and followed by a gap score of -0.995 for tangibles and the lowest gap (-0.64) scored for the assurance dimension. The findings of the study are expected to guide the management of St. Mary University to ensure the quality of distance education service. Sat, 20 Aug 2022 00:00:00 GMT http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/7396 2022-08-20T00:00:00Z