Optimizing Allocation Decisions in Open and Distance Learning Using Spatial Decision Support Systems and Agent-Based Models: A Case Study of Allama Iqbal Open University

Abstract

Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is the largest national distance learning university which is currently providing online and distance education in many fields to students in Pakistan and abroad. The University is offering different program at different levels which includes programs from basic level to doctoral degrees in many fields. These courses are offered by the univesity in different modes including online, distance and blended learning models. AIOU is offering more than 1200 courses and has enrollment of about 1.4 million students approximately per annum. It has a network of more than 36 regional campuses with more than 1600 study centers all across the country. More than 60,000 tutors are appointed each year. The regional centers located in different part of country are responsible for tutors and study centers allocation to distance learners which is done manually without any aid of technology or Decision Support Systems. This makes the allocation decision inefficient and slow. As a result students face difficulties. We propose Spatial Decision Support System (SDSS) in order to improve the quality of decisions made for allocation. Spatial Decision Support System has the abilities to adress the problems faced in distance learning by different stakeholders such as students, teachers and the administrative staff. The usage of Agent based modeling in Open and Distance learning will also be demonstrated in the study which is a bottom-up approach for modelling individual behaviors. This will also help solve the student’s problems that are allocated tutors and study centers without considering their localities and other atrributes such as gender, discipline etc. The study will help in understanding the issues of distance learners and provide a solution for improvement of allocation decisions.