The present study investigated the need of digital technologies for the distance learners of AIOU (Allama Iqbal Open University), and the challenges in its implementation. Within mixed-method approach, an explanatory sequential design was employed to conduct this study. Quantitative data was collected through questionnaires from 963 students to find out the needs for digital technologies. Later 3 administrators and 1 library in-charge were interviewed to find out the challenges in its implementation. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. For qualitative data analysis, inductive analysis was done. Most of the students said that digital technologies were needed for increasing accessibility and flexibility of learning. The challenges for its implementation were in the requirement of diverse online learning resources, access, cost and lack of expertise. The paper recommended that there should be provision of portable devices to students with Wi-Fi, and guidance about its use. Annual need-assessment system was also suggested.

中文翻译：

---

Allama Iqbal公开大学（AIOU）的数字学习技术：调查需求和挑战

本研究调查了AIOU（阿拉马·伊克巴尔开放大学）的远程学习者对数字技术的需求以及其实施中的挑战。在混合方法中，采用了解释性顺序设计来进行这项研究。通过调查问卷从963名学生中收集了定量数据，以找出对数字技术的需求。随后采访了3位管理员和1位图书馆主管，以了解实施过程中的挑战。使用描述性统计数据分析定量数据。对于定性数据分析，进行了归纳分析。大多数学生说，数字技术是提高学习的可及性和灵活性所必需的。实施它的挑战在于需要多种在线学习资源，访问权限，成本和缺乏专业知识。该文件建议应为配备Wi-Fi的学生提供便携式设备，并提供使用指导。还提出了年度需求评估系统。