Reflections on Policies and Practices of Open and Distance Learning in Nigeria: Towards a Renewed Invigoration

This paper reflects on the policy and practice of Open and Distance learning in Nigeria with a view to identifying the areas that need a renewed invigoration. Concepts related to Open and Distance Learning and the Evolution of Distance Education Practice in Nigeria are discussed. The policy formulations of Distance Education institutions in Nigeria in relation to the major components of Distance Education and the problems plaguing the effective implementation of distance education programmes are examined. The need for a renewed invigoration of Open and Distance Learning practices in Nigeria especially in the development of comprehensive and coherent strategic vision to guide policy development on student support services, modern technology for information processing and instruction, instructional facilities to match students enrolment, quality assurance system, benchmark for accreditation of Open and Distance Learning programmes are recommended.