PERCEPTION OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SCALE ENTERPRISES’ OPERATORS ON ONLINE LEARNING AS AN AVENUE FOR SELF- DEVELOPMENT AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Abstract

Lifelong learning enables individuals to stay current and competitive globally. Due to the current economic situation, small and medium-scale businesses are increasing in number. These businesses can benefit from online and distance learning (ODL) to improve their educational attainment. ODL bridges the gap in distance and time posed by traditional learning systems to offer self-development and achievement with ease. This study examines the perception of small and medium-scale enterprise operators regarding online learning as an avenue for self-development and achievement. The population and sample size of the study was four hundred and eighty-two (482) male and female SME operators from Abuja Federal Capital Territory in Nigeria. A 23 items Structured questionnaire in four sections was developed for the SMEs and used for data collection. The questionnaire was subjected to face validity, while Cronbach Alpha method was used to test the reliability of the instrument resulting in 0.72 reliability coefficient. The data generated from the study were analysed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation. The study found that lack of financial support is a major factor that hinders SME operators' enrolment in online learning. The study concluded that SME operators in Abuja FCT have a high positive perception of online learning towards self-achievement and self development. Based on the findings, it was recommended among others that the government and NGO initiatives should provide scholarships, grants etcetera to SME operators to address financial barriers associated with online learning, so to enable the operators enroll in online learning.