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Distance learning is becoming an increasingly popular way of studying, and most universities now provide courses using these methods. Today's students, though, are demanding high quality, consumer-focused and flexible courses, as well as learning resources and active learner support. This means that providers of distance education need to reconsider key issues about their learner support systems, ensuring that this is delivered appropriately and effectively.
Considering the changing needs and demands of distance education students, this book draws together contributions from the UK, USA, Hong Kong, Australia, Japan, South Africa and Botswana, to offer an international perspective on:
* the challenges and opportunities of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
* quality assurance, commercialisation and the learner as consumer
* the impact on learners of cultural differences on internationalised curricula
* the implications for learner support of a wider range of learners
This book should be read by all those involved in developing and delivering distance education courses.
List of contents
Introduction; Chapter 1 Constructivism or Confucianism?, Aylward Louise; Chapter 2 Exploring informal student study groups in a South African teacher education programme; Chapter 3 Supporting the masses?, Norma Corry, Tony Lelliott; Chapter 4 Addressing the learning skills needs of students at a distance, MargaretJohnson, CliveBarrett; Chapter 5 Supporting the student in new teaching and learning environments, BrianKenworthy; Chapter 6 The importance of the tutor in open and distance learning, Helen Lentell; Chapter 7 Remembering our common work, Mandell Alan, Herman Lee; Chapter 8 On-line learning and supporting students, Mason Mason; Chapter 9 The centrality of learner support in open and distance learning, Mills Roger; Chapter 10 Distance higher education and library services in Japan, Chieko Mizoue; Chapter 11 Changing entrenched learner support systems, Evelyn Pulane Nonyongo; Chapter 12 Lost and found, O'Rourke Jennifer; Chapter 13 Challenges in adjusting to new technology in supporting learners in developing countries, Jason Pennells; Chapter 14 Delivering learner supporton-line, MarionPhillips; Chapter 15 Rethinking learner support in the Open University UK, AlanTait; Chapter 16 Collaborative on-line learning, MaryThorpe;
About the author
Alan Tait is a Senior Lecturer and Sub Dean in the Faculty of Education and Language Studies at the Open University UK. Roger Mills is the Regional Director of the Open University in the East of England.
Summary
Distance learning is becoming an increasingly popular way of studying, and most universities now provide courses using this method. This book considers the changing needs and demands of distance education students.
