Pathways to use of online social media tools in distance learning
Abstract: This paper explores the pathways to the use of online social media tools to further the course of distance learning in Nigeria. The discourse is premised on the fact that a good majority of rural adults in Nigeria are at best similiterate and have no intention of taking to conventional schooling. After extensive review of available literature, the paper identified widening digital divide between the urban and rural areas, lack of awareness, rural poverty and irregular electricity as hindrances to the use of online social media tools by rural adult learners. The paper calls for the creation of awareness, provision of ICT infrastructure and training, improved power supply, poverty reduction and good policies. It also calls for public private partnership and collaboration between Distance learning institutions and Internet providers to pave the way for extensive use of online social media tools in Distance learning.