EFFECTS OF FINANCIAL STRESS AND ACCESS TO SUPPORTSERVICES ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF ADULT LEARNERS IN OPENUNIVERS ITY IN IBADAN METROPOLITAN AREA

Abstract

Financial stress remains a major challenge confronting adult learners in open and distance learning institutions , particularly in developing countries where learners often combine education with work and family responsibilities. This study examines the effect of financial stress
and access to support services on the academic performance of adult learners in Open University within the Ibadan metropolitan area, Oyo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. The population comprised adult learners enrolled in selected study centers, from which a sample of 420 respondents were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire measuring financial stress, availability and utilization of support services, and self reported academic performance. The data were analyzed using
descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that financial stress had a significant positive effect on academic performance, while access to and utilization of learner support services also had a significant positive effect. The study further showed that support service s alleviated the negative impact of financial stress on academic outcomes. The paper concludes that strengthening financial and academic support structures is essential for improving adult learners’ performance in open universities. The paper recommends that Open Universities should establish financial aid and scholarship programmes for adult learners and institutions should strengthen academic counseling and mentoring services.