Organizational Noise in Open and Distance Learning Systems: A Multidimensional Framework for Understanding Communication Barriers
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62843/jrsr/2026.5a186Keywords:
Digital Transformation, Thematic Analysis, Institutional Culture, Digital Literacy, Infrastructure DisparitiesAbstract
Organizational communication in Open and Distance Learning is highly complex because of the technological, structural, and contextual dynamics it presents. Communication theories suggest that organizational noise refers to the environmental, technological, cultural, and language barriers that interfere with or disrupt the communication process of sending, receiving, and giving feedback on a message. This study investigates the nature of organizational noise in a large-scale distance education system by identifying its manifestations, their sources, and factors that influence them. A qualitative research methodology was employed through semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion. The faculty, administrative staff, and students related their experiences of organizational noise in the online environment of the Open University. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis to identify manifestations of organizational noise and their sources within the distance education context. The findings show that organizational noise is not only a complex construct that transcends the communication problems experienced by individuals. Rather, it is a holistic phenomenon that is formed through the interactions of structural, technological, cultural, and language barriers, such as spatial distance, design flaws in technology leading to inequalities in access and use, power, and generational disparities. Further, bilingualism as a support mechanism can also contribute to noise production.
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