An Evaluation of the Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education Programme offered at Great Zimbabwe University

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the Diploma in Adult and Continuing Education programme offered at Great Zimbabwe University. The purpose of the study was to determine the relevance of the courses offered to the needs of the participant adult learners and also ascertain whether the training developed skills that contributed to better work performance. The research also
sought to establish what motivated participants to enroll and persist in studies for the Diploma qualification. A descriptive survey design was adopted and data was collected using questionnaires complemented by a focus group interview as a means for verifying survey data. From a total of sixty four (64) graduates of the programme, eighteen (18) respondents were conveniently sampled and completed the questionnaires. Data was analysed quantitatively using frequency tables and qualitatively through content analysis. The study found out that eleven (11) courses served the learning needs of participants and hence were assessed as relevant to the programme. Three (3) religion courses were regarded as non- relevant to the learning needs of
participants as they had no direct application at trainees’ workplaces. Participants were influenced by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors to enroll for the diploma studies. The study concludes that the programme was generally effective in providing the knowledge and skills relevant to most participants’ work situations. However, the study recommends the inclusion of more development oriented courses and some course readjustments in response to the nonapplication value of religion courses.