THE NEXUS BETWEEN OPEN DISTANCE LEARNING AND THE LABOR MARKET

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter is about the nexus between Open Distance Learning (ODL) and the labor market. The chapter starts with the review of the philosophy of ODL and links it with andragogy as a philosophical approach and the art and science of adult learning. Central to the discussion is the issue of how ODL provides the much needed qualified human resources to the labor market, found to be complex within the South African context. This is due to many factors paramount to which is labor immigration. Historically, continued labor market discrimination against previously disadvantaged groups, blacks, women and persons with disabilities in senior and executive management positions is a thorn in the South African employment sector. Given the status of South Africa as an emerging market, its labor market is becoming a kaleidoscope with various aspects to be considered. For instance, recruitment and appointments tend to be biased against graduate from historically black universities, many experience extended waiting periods before absorption into the labor market. Their counterparts from historically white universities on the contrary wait less. Sometimes the whites are guaranteed jobs while still studying. The chapter reviews work-based learning as a contributory factor to the development of ODL graduates. The last part links ODL and the labor market with career adaptation of the ODL graduates and how this answers to the needs of the ever changing labor market.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Africa
Subtitle of host publicationVolume 11: (11 Volume Set)
PublisherNova Science Publishers, Inc.
Pages1409-1419
Number of pages11
Volume1-11
ISBN (Electronic)9781536172355
ISBN (Print)9781536172348
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2020
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Arts and Humanities

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