The development of alumni information systems in open and distance learning: Anadolu University sample

It is of utmost importance to develop the appropriate alumni information systems for the graduates in the institutions that provide massive education through open and distance learning. There are different applications such as graduate information systems, graduate networks, alumni association, career support systems developed for graduates from different institutions at national and international level. However, as a result of the literature review, it has been seen that these applications are not based on scientific research processes but mostly on the basis of practical solutions and institution requirements. This situation is an important problem especially in the open education institutions that provide massive education. For this reason, designing an alumni information system of Anadolu University Open Education System, which is one of the three largest universities in the world with its three million graduates and one million active students, in accordance with the needs and requirements of the graduates is the subject of this master thesis. In this context, the aim of this thesis research is to develop and evaluate a alumni information system that will enable communication and interaction in the focus of lifelong learning needs for the graduates of Anadolu University Open Education System. For this purpose, the studies conducted in this thesis designed as design-based research. Data were collected in three stages in designed based research processes. In the first stage data collected from 271 graduates to develop the first design of alumni information system. In second stage data collected from 10 open and distance learning field experts for the improvement of the system. At final stage, data collected from 1051 graduates to eliminate the deficiencies in the system and apply the proposals to the design. Improvements in the alumni information system have been completed in accordance with the opinions and recommendations received within the improvement cycle. In addition, within the scope of the thesis, suggestions are given for the design of applications and future researches to be made for the graduates. Keywords: open and distance learning, lifelong learning, alumni information system, alumni institutional loyalty