Quality Circles in Open and Distance Learning Institutions; Opportunities and Challenges: A Case of the Zimbabwe Open University

This case study adopted the qualitative approach to explore the possible implementation of students’ quality circles in the Zimbabwe Open University.  Interviews triangulated by document analysis were used to elicit students’ and staff views on whether they feel the prevailing environment and organizational set up could be useful indicators on the successful implementation of quality circles in Zimbabwe Open University. Benefits and challenges to implementation were explored. Mashonaland East Region’s 330 students and 16 academics were the population of the study. All the student representative council members and the student advisor were the participants. The study established that Zimbabwe Open University has great potential to successfully implement students’ quality circles due to the existence of sound relationships between students and staff, a strong culture of induction and democratic leadership style. Issues that can be handled by the circles include; modules, tutor attendance, teaching approaches, technology among others. Student apathy in participating in group activities and lack of implementation of students’ suggestions have been identified as threats to students’ quality circles. These can be alleviated through; training at all levels of the organisation and use of modern forms of communication platforms such as, whatsapp, skype, e-mails, sms messages.