This discussion of the relationship between self-directed learning, adult development, and distance education presents findings from researchers in the field of autonomous learning. In addition, the implications of self-directed learning for the curriculum and teaching methods in distance education are considered. The document is divided into the…

The decision to create Great Britain's Open University and stages in the preparation of higher education reforms are considered. The current position of the Open University in relation to its original goals is also addressed, and the policy implementation process is examined to determine why the Open University achieved some of its original goals…

The Maryland State Board for Community Colleges is conducting a study of the needs for postsecondary vocational-technical education on the Lower Eastern Shore of the state. This document represents an interim report on the progress of the study. Procedures included analyzing existing manpower and student interest data, verifying this information…

The Open University is discussed from the standpoints of problems, the design of the Student Application Form, an analysis of the student's progress, data collection techniques, and the course unit reporting system. Problems discussed include: the devising of an integrated multi-media system suitable for teaching degree-level courses; teaching…

Presents an overview of a course on robotics and automation developed by the Organization for Rehabilitation through Training (ORT) to be offered through an open learning environment in the United Kingdom. Highlights include hardware and software requirements, an educational model, design principles, and future developments. (LRW)

A 1982 study comparing the Open University with 27 other institutions providing part-time bachelors degree programs in two regions of Yorkshire revealed that although the Open University has some aspects that students might find preferable, there are many areas in which other institutions are competitive. (MSE)

The University without Walls (UWW) program at Loretto Heights College is described. It emphasizes individualized programs and degree requirements based on a learner-centered approach to education. It is argued that such an approach, drawing on a wide array of learning resources and giving credit for experiential learning, can successfully meet…

Reviews organizational approaches adopted in different countries for resource management in distance education and compares the cost structure of distance education and conventional education. Resource implications of alternative organizational approaches are briefly examined. Ireland's cooperative approach is described and cost-effective computer…

The relationship between attention to linguistic form and accuracy or to meaning and fluency in language learning has been explored by language learning researchers for many years. They point to the potential difficulties for learners in attending to form and meaning at the same time and the importance of exposure to meaningful target language…

Independent learners study in highly varied circumstances that impact upon the educational process. Media technologies can provide many new educational opportunities, but are context dependent. As educators, we need to develop a better understanding of learners by considering their attitudes and preferences for using media technologies in their…

This paper briefly identifies a number of contemporary pressures for change which condition the way universities will behave and which provide both opportunities and threats for the future; it then goes on to consider the implications for distance education universities. Pressures on universities include such factors as the growth of other…

This proposal begins with a discussion of technologies used by distance education programs to deliver instruction, including the use of video by the Open Education Faculty (OEF) at Anadolu University in Turkey. The first of five chapters discusses modes of communication that can be used in distance education together with their functions. Specific…

This document examines support for students in open learning systems (OLS) by clarifying the concept at the theoretical level, looking for empirical support for its potential value, and identifying key variables that constrain approaches to support. Part 1 clarifies two key concepts--support and effects. Part 2 presents the definition of OLS. In…

The first of two papers in this publication is "Teaching by Satellite in a European Virtual Classroom" (Desmond Keegan). It describes the first accredited university course by satellite, a 1-year certificate course in safety and health at work offered by the University College Dublin. It discusses the enrollment of 219 students at 10…

A study examined the success of the first three years of the Dutch Open University's operation by analyzing data pertaining to students' backgrounds and academic progress while enrolled in the open university. The fact that registered inquiries about the Dutch Open University rose from 120,000 during the summer and autumn of 1984 to more than…