Analysis of Assignments’ Assessment for Distance Learners in Single Vs Dual Mode Institutions

Oct 15, 2026

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Learning for distance learners is shaped largely by assignments completed according to an established schedule, while assignments also function as a key element of formative assessment. This questionnaire-based survey evaluates the roles and skills of personnel and institutions in multiple aspects of assignment assessment to identify process shortcomings. Responses from 625 distance learners in Punjab were collected from one single-mode and two dual-mode universities. Findings indicate the need for standardized quality-evaluation rules and stronger positive traditions; assignment evaluation criteria are not consistently met, and dual-mode institutions perform better.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages21

Reading Time53 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Introduction

Role of assignments in distance learning

Institutional and tutor processes in assignment evaluation

Value of assignments and need for training

Analysis of Assignments’ Assessment for Distance Learners in Single Vs Dual Mode Institutions Nasreen Akhter* and Akhtar Ali** Abstract Most of learning of distance learners took place because of assignments that learners prepare following the given schedule. On the other hand, assignments are also a component of formative assessment process in assessment of distance learners. Present study was an attempt to discuss and evaluate the role and skill of personnel and institutions regarding different aspects of assessment of assignments to search out shortcomings in the process. This was a questionnaire based survey study. Respondents of this study were 625 distance learners from one single mode and two dual mode universities in Punjab. It concluded that institutions need attention to promote positive traditions among distance learners and tutors to establish and implement standard rules for quality evaluation of assignments. All distance education institutions are not meeting the criteria to evaluate assignments of learners. Assignment evaluation in teacher education courses was poor as compared to science and arts subjects. Dual mode institutions were performing better than single mode distance education institutions. Keywords: Assignments, distance learning, evaluation, single mode institutions, dual mode institutions. *Assistant Professor, Department of Education, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Email: [drnasreenakhtar01@gmail.com](drnasreenakhtar01@gmail.com) ** Chairman, Department of Education, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Introduction Assessment is critical in determining the direction of student effort and is vital in providing a channel of communication between students and their educators for campus-based as well as in distance learning context (Macdonald, 2004, p.218) . Assignment is taken as a compulsory component of formative assessment process and also a component of teaching and learning in distance education system. Most of learning of distance learners took place through assignments. Academicians work hard to propose such assignments that can help learners to cover course and get valuable learning experiences in learning process. Different educators and scholars have discussed role of assignments in distance learning from different aspects. Kocher (1990) opines that assignment writing improves students’ interest in study, improves writing habit of learners, make learners habitual to work independently and help tutors to understand learning difficulties of learners. Chander (1991) determines that only system of a consistent and frequent assignment makes distance education effective. Matheswaran (2005) elaborates that assignments are necessary to make learners active, motivated for study, develop methods for collecting information, practice writing and complete tasks timely. Pandey and Parveez (2006) explain that assignments help to assess learner’s understanding about the course. These make possible for learners to get advice of tutors about their learning deficiencies and learn ways to improve themselves. Results of assignments have value for learners. These inform them about their position in the course. Ali, Mehmood and Mahmood (2011) elaborate that assignments are considered a compulsory component in distance learning process. Students attend tutorials and write assignments of each course during a semester. In this way, learning in distance education is managed and made possible through the compulsory component of assignment work. Jumani, Rahman, Iqbal and Chishti (2011) opine that students improve in their studies through assignments. For institutions, assignment is a source of internal assessment of learners. Distance learners prepare assignments and submit them to tutors. Tutors mark assignments and submit results to the institution. In this way, institution manages records of internal assessment of learners. Earl (2013) perceives that assignment is

FAQs

How does the study describe the role of assignments in distance learning?

Assignments are treated as a compulsory part of formative assessment and also support teaching and learning, since much of distance learning occurs through scheduled assignment work.

What was the study design and who were the respondents?

The study used a questionnaire-based survey. It involved 625 distance learners from one single-mode and two dual-mode universities in Punjab.

What conclusions were drawn about assignment evaluation across single vs dual mode institutions?

Institutions need attention to promote positive traditions and implement standard rules for quality evaluation. The study reports that evaluation in teacher education courses was poor compared with science and arts subjects, and dual-mode institutions performed better than single-mode institutions.

Oct 15, 2026

Uploaded by Fans