It is shown that Open University students are psychologically able to sustain an independent (i.e., student-centered) program of learning and that the Open University degree structure is sufficiently flexible to incorporate truly independent study into its structure in the form of a project credit. (Author/LBH)

Describes the two and one-half year process of developing a genetics course for Britain's Open University. The final package of print, television, radio, home experiments, summer schools and a number of assignments and examinations is a product of the course team of Open University staff, British Broadcasting Corporation production staff, and…

Describes the membership, responsibilities, problems, and group dynamics involved in the team approach to the design and development of courses for Britain's Open University. The team selects content and creates teaching materials using various media (correspondence texts, television and radio programs, summer school, home experiment kits,…

Developmental testing at the Open University is a type of formative evaluation in which a small sample of students work through learning materials to determine their effectiveness. On the basis of student feedback, the material may be accepted as it stands, modified in part, or totally revised before it is produced in its final form for the…

An interest survey sent to 2400 pharmacists revealed sufficient interest in courses for credit. A course in therapeutics of major diseases, video-taped on campus and extended to pharmacists at five sites via the statewide higher education video network, is discussed. The majority of pharmacists expressed interest in future courses. (Author/MLW)

The success of distance teaching depends largely on students' comprehension and appreciation of print communication. A communication gap exists, and many students are unable to recognize levels of complexity presented to them. Changes in course structure can help alleviate this learning problem. (MSE)

Open University courses are defined as processes of interaction between students, the materials, and the tutors. Using this definition, the stages of course development, major purposes of feedback, and major audiences for feedback are discussed with particular emphasis on the role of the tutor and student in course development. (JMF)

The author comments on Barbara H. Mickey's article, Designing the External Degree Program. (PG)

The rationale for and development of off-campus studies at Deakin University, Australia, are described. Based on the determination that Victoria had substantial demand for off-campus studies, Deakin University planned to admit to its off-campus program approximately 1,000 students in 1978 and anticipated 2,500 to 3,000 off-campus students by the…

Student involvement in educational planning is of importance in ensuring that programs remain responsive to student needs. Such a fundamental shift in perspective in the role of the student requires significant changes, both in attitudes and practices within higher education. To aid in the development of this new role this document draws together…

The aspects of the team development style that were employed at the University of Mid-America (UMA) in developing multi-media instruction for a new and open university setting for adults are discussed in this paper. The experience of three team projects are drawn upon in defining some particular characteristics of internal team functioning and…

The experience of an open university with the uses of technology in higher education is documented. The emphasis is on its exemplary use of educational technology in context. Examination of the details of how the Open University employs media to serve a large dispersed student body may benefit others who plan to expand or modify their own uses of…

The author, a visitor at the United Kingdom's Open University, comments on his observations of the correspondence and multimedia teaching methods at the University; course production; production problems; and the role of the Institute of Educational Technology which assists faculties in course development. (JMD)

Examines the nature of external doctoral education, particularly as it pertains to nursing. While such nontraditional programs provide new learning structures and expand available options, disadvantages include separation from student support services, full-time faculty, and library facilities. Discusses accreditation, residency requirements,…