The purpose of this project is to investigate the potential of communication networks using electronic mail, computer conferencing, and electronic databases for education and training at a distance within the Open Univeristy system of Great Britain, although it would be applicable within other contexts. This report discusses (1) the rationale for…

The first of 12 papers in this collection is printed both in the original language--French--and in English translation: (1) L'harmonisation de la formation: considerations theoriques et pratiques = Harmonization of Education and Training: Theory and Practice" (Yves Courrier); other papers include (2) "Information Management: A New Focus…

This paper reviews the use of different audio-visual media in distance education, including terrestrial broadcasting, cable satellite, videocassettes, audiocassettes, telephone teaching, viewdata, teletext, microcomputers, and interactive video. Trends in distance education are also summarized and related to trends in media technology development.…

This examination of the educational and economic advantages of using videocassettes instead of broadcast television for Open University distance education begins by noting that, while the potential importance of television in distance education is widely recognized by educators, students appear to be less appreciative. The Video Cassettes Loan…

Teaching functions for which television, radio, and audiocassettes are particularly appropriate are considered, based on the use of broadcasting at the Open University. Television is useful for the following purposes: to demonstrate experiments or experimental situations; to illustrate principles involving dynamic change or movement; to illustrate…

Information is provided on the goals of Israel's Everyman's University (EU) and its students, curricula and study modes, extra-academic programs, new directions, governance, and budget. Introductory materials include a country profile, an overview of higher education in Israel, information on distance education, the open university, and the…

This catalog describes audiovisual format courses produced by the Open University of Great Britain and presently available in the United States. The courses are: (1) Art and Environment; (2) Environmental Control and Public Health; (3) History of Architecture and Design 1890-1939; (4) History of Mathematics; (5) International Politics and Foreign…

This is the first prospectus of the Open University which will begin operating in January 1971. University governance, policy, and philosophy are discussed in the introduction. The remainder of the prospectus is devoted to: (1) degrees and diplomas offered by the University; (2) the undergraduate program; (3) a syllabus of foundation courses; (4)…

The purpose of this study was to reveal trends, indicate fields for further research and action, and expose problem areas for further study at the international level. The study objectives are to review: (1) the course patterns and degree structures developed at the Open University in the United Kingdom, (2) new degree courses in the United…

This report concerns the extablishment and development of the British Open University. Contents include the descriptions of: the development of the institution; staffing the open university; development of the Milton Keynes Campus; undergraduate course development; regional organization; demand for open university courses; development, production,…

A study was made of how conventional, face-to-face teaching methods might be used in conjunction with correspondence study (CS), programed instruction (PI), educational television (ETV) and radio broadcasts, and other approaches to make higher education more widely available throughout the region served by the University of the West Indies. These…

A study was conducted to determine what library and information sources were utilized or needed by students taking higher-level Open University courses. Information requirements of advanced students indicated that information is needed about area facilities and that students need help to acquire skills in locating and using special resources. (SW)

An alternative technique, cost-effectiveness analysis, is proposed as a more appropriate way of evaluating the Open University. A rudimentary application of the technique to the cost structure of OU indicates that it could result in a substantial reduction in OU's costs. (Author/LBH)

The value of intensive commentary by subject expert teachers on Open University course materials is emphasized. The insights of someone who can alternate the role of reading as a student with that of reading as an expert and teacher are seen as significant in making substantial improvements to course material. (Author/LBH)