THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (LMS) IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ONLINE DISTANCE LEARNING IN TECHNICAL INSTITUTIONS IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY

Abstract

This project seeks to investigate the effectiveness of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in the implementation of online distance learning within technical institutions in Uasin Gishu County. With the increasing demand for flexible and accessible education, LMS has emerged as a critical tool for delivering online courses. However, the effectiveness of LMS in achieving educational goals, particularly in technical institutions, remains under-explored. The study evaluated how LMS supports online learning, the challenges faced by both instructors and students, and the overall impact on educational outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data from a representative sample of students, instructors, and administrators. Key objectives include assessing the functionality of LMS in enhancing learning, identifying barriers to effective LMS use, and proposing strategies to optimize LMS implementation. The findings of this research are expected to contribute valuable insights into improving online distance learning and guiding policy decisions for technical education in Uasin Gishu County. Data was collected from technical institutions in the region through surveys, interviews, and analysis of institutional records. The findings reveal that while LMS has improved accessibility and flexibility in education, there are barriers such as inadequate technological infrastructure, limited digital literacy, and inconsistent internet access that hinder full utilization. Recommendations for addressing these challenges are provided.