A key component of conventional distance education organizations has been the network of local study centres, set up to serve as a bridge between students and the educational organization. With the capacity of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to enable direct contact between the educational institution and its dispersed students,…

Examines working forms of the adult education system in Finland, including municipal adult education, boarding schools, national education organizations, distance studies and educational services, administration of adult education, university teaching and research of adult education, and adult education organizations. (CT)

Examines findings and practical implications of a study on homework which helped Scottish policymakers, educators and families better understand, improve and build upon home-school relations. The study prompted the creation of study support centers in schools that were staffed by librarians, teachers, and parents. (JPB)

Study centers for the Open University are described. They provide students with an opportunity to meet other students, tutors, and counselors. Some possible future developments within the study centers are outlined. (JMF)