AN ASSESSMENT OF CAPACITY BUILDING PROGRAMME ON QUANTITATIVE METHODS OF RESEARCH FOR TEACHERS AND ACADEMICS

ABSTRACT

This paper seeks to ascertain the effectiveness of a three days capacity Building Programme organized by Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), for teachers and academics of the open and distance learning (ODL) system, with the aim of upgrading their knowledge and skills in quantitative methods used in research along with many important concepts of research methodology which are useful for research and exposure on advanced statistical tools & techniques used for analysing field data. CBP has been designed to familiarize teachers, academicians, statistics practitioners and researchers with the application of statistical soft wares, used for analysing data and interpreting the outputs. The specific aim of this study is to ascertain whether the objectives of the CBP have been achieved, to examine the effectiveness of the training programme and to suggest measures for improvement in future CBP regarding the Research methods. The design of this study was conducted using a descriptive survey research method, through semi-structured questionnaires and adopted purposive sampling. The first data was Obtained at the time of registration by the Training Need Assessment (TNA) questionnaire while the second was after the CBP by MCQs and Feedback questionnaire by virtual mode. The outcomes of the study revealed that the training had been effective in imparting appropriate knowledge and skills to the trainees, with respect to quantitative methods of research. However, certain gaps were also identified and have been reported in this paper. Key suggestions have been made to address the shortcomings and improve forthcoming CBPs. The research focused on a specific training programme regarding the Quantitative methods of research. Therefore, only the teachers and academics who participated in this specialized training activity were considered for the collection of feedback. These would be especially useful in the design of CBPs, aimed at orienting teachers who are involved in Research. Originality/value – This study is original research based on the empirical primary data obtained by the researchers. As the largest open university in the world, IGNOU has been playing a key role in staff development for and in ODL in developing countries. This evaluative study of a specialized CBP in the area of quantitative methods of research is significant work that may be valuable for planning staff development strategies and building a training evaluation mechanism.