Distance and Institution-Based Learning for teachers

Mount Kenya University (MKU) recognises the need to provide quality and affordable education to all in need. In this regard, the university offers education through various modes of training that best fit the convenience of learners. Among them is the Distance and Institution-Based Learning, popular in its abbreviated form – DIBL.

Distance and Institution-Based Learning students engaging in discussion at the MKU study villas.

DIBL is a flexible mode of learning that uniquely combines distance study with classroom lectures. Based at the School of Education, it is designed to train teachers who can teach effectively and efficiently; conduct educational research; apply practical approaches in classroom teaching; implement relevant emerging educational and community issues; manage learning institutions effectively; and develop their learners’ abilities to think critically and creatively in solving problems.

The Directorate of Distance and Institution Based Learning, which coordinates DIBL, was formerly known as Directorate of School Based Education Programmes (SBEP). This was the directorate that catered to students (teachers) who were only available to learn during school holidays.

After rebranding following a market survey and also to be in line with Commission for University Education (CUE) regulations on minimum contact hour regulations, SBEP rebranded  to DIBL, introducing a component of digital student-teacher contact into the holiday face-to-face interaction.

Hence, lecturers not only conduct lecture sessions at the university during school holidays, but also have web-based interaction with learners via the SAKAI platform installed by the University to cater for the distance component.

Thus, distance (web-based) and institution-based (face-to-face lecturer design) learning is made possible. “As you come to Mount Kenya University, and if you choose the Distance and Institution Based Learning (DIBL), I want to assure you that the degree course you will undertake under this mode will be as good as the degree course taken through the regular mode,” says DIBL Director, Kariuki Nderitu.

The Directorate aims “to be a role model of excellence in the provision of distance and institution-based learning”.