EFFECTIVENESS OF OPEN, DISTANCE AND ELECTRONIC LEARNING ON
ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP SHORT COURSES AT THE ZIMBABWE PRISONS AND
CORRECTIONAL SERVICES (ZPCS)

EFFECTIVENESS OF OPEN, DISTANCE AND ELECTRONIC LEARNING ON
ENTREPRENEURIAL LEADERSHIP SHORT COURSES AT THE ZIMBABWE PRISONS AND
CORRECTIONAL SERVICES (ZPCS)

GERALD MUNYORO

DOMINIC UZHENYU

The transition from a traditional face-to-face learning mode to Open, Distance and Electronic
Learning (ODeL) has become increasingly relevant in the context of Zimbabwe’s educational
landscape, particularly for sectors requiring specialised training such as the Zimbabwe Prisons
and Correctional Services (ZPCS). The study focused on the effectiveness of the transition
from blended learning to full adoption of ODeL in delivering short courses in entrepreneurial
leadership to the top officials of the ZPCS. The study employed a qualitative paradigm using
interviews to generate data by assessing participants’ experiences, learning outcomes, and
overall satisfaction with the transition phase from face-to-face delivery, then blended learning
to full ODeL. Major findings were the flexibility of ODeL, the need for technological support,
low effect on learning experience and low engagement levels. While ODeL increased
accessibility to educational resources and scheduling convenience, the study highlights critical
challenges that impede optimal learning outcomes such as inadequate infrastructure,
inconsistent internet access as well as varying levels of digital literacy among participants,
which collectively hinder their ability to fully engage with the course learning material.
Recommendations include the need to have tailored support systems to ensure sustainable
educational practices.

ZJBEM

2025