Signal The Use of Learning Management Systems for Self-paced Learning: The Case at a South African Public Access Centre

Summary

This study examines the use of a Learning Management System to support self-paced learning at a South African Public Access Centre, using the I-CAN Centre as a case. It relies on semi-structured interviews with 38 learners and thematic analysis as its method. Through this, the research explores the opportunities and challenges of adopting a Learning Management System in a resource-constrained public access setting. The findings show that Public Access Centres play a critical role in closing the digital access gap for self-paced learners who lack internet connectivity or devices at home. The paper contributes empirical evidence on the barriers and enablers of Learning Management System adoption specific to the Global South public-access model, distinct from formal university settings. This points to lessons for supporting self-paced learning outside formal higher-education institutions.