This article argues for another commitment by the Open University in a new field of educational technology based on the telephone. Consideration is given to one-to-one telephone calls for tutorial purposes, conference calls, teaching by satellite, and meeting by telephone. (LBH)

This is a short review of the progress of some members of the Open University Technology Faculty in researching, discussing, and preparing a project course for first presentation in 1979, in which students will design and carry out their own project on any topic relating to the subject areas within the Technology Faculty. (Author/LBH)

This paper examines the origins, objectives and structures, funding and cost, programs, learners, and teaching and learning of the radio and television universities in China and the British Open University (BOU). It also discusses the nature and role of each of these entities, including growth and development of higher education and the…

The Regents External Degrees program to earn a degree without attending college, and the College Proficiency Examinations to validate knowledge gained outside of the formal college classroom are described. The programs are administered by the University of the State of New York, which has no campus or courses, but accepts credits from accredited…

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 issues of selecting an evaluation type, scope, and techniques are discussed in relation to a study that aims to investigate the effects of introducing a multimedia independent learning package into a conventional university environment. This is done by examining one second-level Open University course taught at the University of Essex.…

Support services provided to students studying at a distance or taking adult education courses in several countries were examined. Information was obtained from papers presented at an international symposium. Implications for the development of advisory and support services inside and outside the Open University are considered. (SW)

An analysis of developments at the Open University since 1973 indicates that there has been little reduction in average cost in real terms and that no improvement is likely on known developments to 1979. Reasons for this are explored, and suggestions for improving the situation are offered. (Editor/LBH)

Results of a survey show that Open University students attach importance to face-to-face tutoring, and their need for the service does not lessen with their experience in distance education. These findings contrast with the institution's policy of offering tutoring only remedially. (MSE)

The outlook for the Open University is examined with regard to growth factors, new jobs for graduates, trends in the United Kingdom towards mass higher education, and transferability and collaboration. (LBH)

An Open University program to develop software for a microcomputer/speech synthesizer is described that could provide broad access to university programming, computer-assisted instruction, and data processing. The state of the art of speech synthesis and the problems encountered in program construction and trial are outlined. (MSE)

This publication is one of a series designed as a companion to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE)'s fact book, "Policy Indicators for Higher Education: WICHE States." The title article maintains that the growth of distance learning programs has heightened existing concerns about their quality. Institutions can…

The Open University is playing a significant part in "compensatory" education by providing degree-level courses for large numbers of adults who for one reason or another did not go on to degree-level education after leaving school. It has attracted a large number of students from working-class backgrounds. (Author/LBH)

An examination of the need for academic advising and tutoring for upper division students of the Open University in Scotland reveals a gap between institutional recommendations and the actual use and perception of the services. Clearer guidance is recommended for tutor-counselors, and questions are posed about service needs for further…

The situation of the part-time tutor at the Open University is examined by a staff member. Consideration is given to the sense of isolation, the part-timer's general role in the university and limitations enforced by that role, and the contribution part-timers could make to course maintenance and planning. (LBH)