Category: Case Studies

Case Study: Enhancing E-Learning Capabilities at National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN)

Overview

In January 2018, Amtec Links had the privilege of partnering with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) to conduct an intensive in-house training program for 40 of their staff members. This training was pivotal in advancing NOUN’s capacity to deliver high-quality education through its e-learning platforms, focusing on Moodle Administration, course creation essentials, and SQL Database management.

Objectives

The primary goal of this training program was to empower NOUN’s staff with the technical skills and knowledge needed to manage and optimize their Moodle-based learning management system (LMS). Additionally, the training aimed to equip participants with expertise in SQL Database administration to ensure efficient data handling, storage, and retrieval processes critical for the university’s operations.

Training Modules

    1. Moodle Administration & Course Creation Essentials:
      • Moodle Overview: Introduction to the Moodle LMS, its architecture, and core functionalities.
      • User Management: Techniques for managing user roles, permissions, and accounts.
      • Course Creation: Best practices for designing, developing, and deploying courses within Moodle, ensuring accessibility and engagement.
      • System Configuration: Customization of Moodle settings to align with NOUN’s educational objectives and user requirements.
    2. SQL Database Administration:
      • Database Fundamentals: Understanding SQL syntax, database structures, and relational database management.
      • Database Design: Best practices for designing efficient and scalable databases tailored to educational institutions.
      • Data Security: Strategies for safeguarding sensitive data, ensuring compliance with data protection regulations.
      • Backup & Recovery: Procedures for data backup, disaster recovery, and maintaining data integrity.
    3. SQL Database Management:
      • Query Optimization: Techniques for enhancing the performance of SQL queries to ensure swift data retrieval.
      • Database Maintenance: Regular maintenance tasks to keep the databases running smoothly, including indexing, defragmentation, and performance tuning.
      • Troubleshooting: Identifying and resolving common database issues to minimize downtime and disruptions.

Outcomes

The training resulted in several positive outcomes:

    • Enhanced Technical Proficiency: Participants gained a deep understanding of Moodle and SQL Database management, enabling them to better support NOUN’s e-learning platform.
    • Improved Course Delivery: With the new skills acquired, staff could create and manage online courses more effectively, leading to a richer learning experience for students.
    • Efficient Data Management: The SQL training equipped staff with the tools to manage NOUN’s databases more efficiently, ensuring data integrity and security.
    • Long-term Impact: The knowledge transfer from this training continues to benefit NOUN as the staff apply their skills in maintaining and upgrading the university’s e-learning infrastructure.

The in-house training program conducted by Amtec Links in January 2018 was a significant success, greatly enhancing the e-learning capabilities of the National Open University of Nigeria. By investing in the development of their staff, NOUN has positioned itself to provide superior online education, setting a benchmark for other institutions in the region.