Institutional Framework for Adoption of Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) Programmes at Malawi School of Government (MSG)

Edward Gerald Mwalabu, Malawi University of Sciences and Technology, Malawi

ABSTRACT

Five public universities of Malawi adopted Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) system for delivery of academic programmes to learners. This was a strategy of increasing access of higher education to many Malawians in view of space and infrastructure limitations under the regular face-to-face intake of learners. This research study was undertaken to develop an institutional framework for adoption of Open Distance and e-Learning (ODeL) programmes at Malawi School of Government (MSG) in line with set standards of education. MSG is a newly established public institution that was established by Malawi Government to provide training, research, consultancy and advisory services to the public. The study deployed three key theoretical models in line with the concepts of e-learning and innovation adoptions comprising of TPACK, SAMR and Diffusion of Innovation Models respectively. The research study adopted mixed methods comprising of qualitative and quantitative techniques. These methods influenced the choice of data collection tools which comprised of survey questionnaires, key in-depth interviews and documentary analysis of existing literature sources. The research data were analysed using relevant software packages such as Microsoft Excel and SPSS in order to derive useful information for the final report. The findings for this study revealed useful elements for inclusion in the proposed e-learning framework to be adopted by Malawi School of Government (MSG). These elements include internet connectivity, appropriate devices, self-instructional materials, delivery time, online skills and good interactions between lecturers and learners.

Keywords

Institutional Framework, Open Distance and e-Learning, Malawi School of Government.

Integrating Facilities Engineering and Research Infrastructure: A Strategic Framework for Advancing Aerospace Technology at Tuskegee University

Brandon Toliver and Sh’Voda Gregory, Tuskegee University, USA

ABSTRACT

Aerospace research competitiveness depends on reliable, digitally connected, adaptable, and resilient infrastructure as well as faculty expertise and instrumentation. This paper introduces the Facilities-Engineering Integration Model (FEIM), a systems framework linking research strategy, capital planning, facilities engineering, digital engineering, and workforce development. FEIM integrates BIM, GIS, Internet of Things sensing, maintenance and asset-management systems, and digital twins into a common decision environment. It also proposes five performance tools: the Facilities Research Readiness Index, Research Infrastructure Return on Investment, Infrastructure Resilience Index, Laboratory Utilization Efficiency, and Research Infrastructure Optimization Model. Tuskegee University serves as an applied case environment. The framework includes a five-year implementation roadmap, governance model, federal funding strategy, and modified Delphi validation protocol, positioning facilities engineering as an active contributor to aerospace research, student development, institutional resilience, and sponsored innovation.

Keywords

Aerospace Infrastructure, Digital Twin, Facilities Engineering, Research Infrastructure, Systems Engineering.