Abstract

This study examined the study patterns and problems militating against women distant learners in Oyo and Osun States, Nigeria. A descriptive research design was adopted in the study. The population of the study consisted the 522 female distant learners of the University of Ibadan, Ibadan (Oyo State) and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife distant learning centres (Osun State) in the 2007 / 2008 academic year. The sample of the study consisted of 240 female distant learners from the two institutions (120 from each of the institutions). The selection of the female distant learners from the institutions was based on stratified sampling method. A set of instrument titled; ‘Questionnaire on Women Distant Learners (QWDL) was specifically developed for the study to elicit relevant information on the associated problems and study pattern of distance learners particularly those that are women. It was established in the study that home environment, household chores, maternal responsibilities, isolation, and concentration problems constitute barriers to private learning in Nigeria. The emerging pattern of the study habits appears to be in response to these major barriers. The paper notes the impact of these barriers as evident in several learning problems. Their implications for women education, particularly, in areas where women are poorly represented, are discussed. Steps to enhance the education of women as a disadvantaged group are also suggested.