A method for making improvements in Open University coursework is reported and its effectiveness assessed. A model of developmental testing, when carried out in the year before presentation of a course, is shown to be a powerful tool for improving that course. Its main characteristics are summarized. (LBH)

The relevance of Open University-type institutions to developing countries is questioned due to subject area and target audience, study location, learning method, and the media. A package approach is suggested that features adaptable course content, alternative educational technology, nonacademic subject emphasis, and non-home-based study. (LBH)

These aspects of three European open universities in Great Britain, Spain, and West Germany are discussed: the impetus to establish distance teaching universities, academic programs, student characteristics, production of graduates, teaching media, costs (Britain only), academic standards, and overall success. (MSE)

The use of instructional materials for purposes other than those originally intended is investigated in one section of Britain's Open University, and the possible kinds of materials adaptation and modification are outlined. Implications for curriculum cost reductions are also discussed. (MSE)

Describes the structure and function of China's Central Radio and Television University (CRTVU) and reviews the educational system in China, the types of television classes offered through CRTVU, the student population served, and the issues that have to be faced before television university expansion can occur. Six references are listed. (MBR)

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…

The results of an initial study of the relationship between grades and number of words written on assignments at the Open University are reported. Analysis shows that higher grades are awarded students with longer answers, and suggestions for standardization are made. (LBH)

Tutor attitudes toward the marking of a sample of scripts from a particular course at the Open University were discussed at meetings called the Tutor Agreement Trial. The main object was to lessen the feeling of isolation often experienced by part-time staff teaching at a distance. (LBH)

Results of a questionnaire survey of 67 persons from the nonacademic community who served as Community Faculty are presented. Included are demographic characteristics of the faculty, descriptions of student-faculty relationships, feelings about students, attitudes toward credits for life experience and remuneration, role definitions, and attitudes…

This paper describes the development of the CalStateTEACH program at California State University (CSU), Fresno, a system-wide initiative that is grafted onto the program of individual institutions. It was originally an open university program called CalNet. It was redeveloped during the fall of 1998, when teams of CSU teacher educators helped…

This document presents the norms and standards for computer education in India through distance mode, including the Masters in Computer Applications (MCA) and Bachelor in Computer Applications (BCA) programs. These norms and standards were considered and approved by the Distance Education Council, Indira Gandhi National Open University (India), at…

Since its inception in India in 1962, distance education has grown in popularity. The Distance Education Council (DEC) directs distance learning within India's higher education system. The DEC's promotion, coordination, and maintenance of standards for distance education are its three major roles. Its initiatives include grants, support for…

In an open university History of Science course a unit was written to provide basic information on quantum theory for students with arts and social science background in order to enable these students to handle the Bohr-Einstein debate. An evaluation of the unit showed that it achieved its purpose. (Author/MLW)

Summarizes the results of an evaluative study on the use of computer-assisted instruction at the Open University in Great Britain. Student responses on questionnaires identified computer-related problems such as physical access, equipment malfunction, and program quality. Makes recommendations for the effective use of computer-assisted instruction…

A group of students enrolled in a multimedia course in the National Extension College in England in 1970 were contacted by their tutor 10 years later and asked to complete a questionnaire about their lives and their views on the course. This article outlines their responses. (Author/JJD)