The Open University of Catalonia (UOC) was established as public, online university and thus has grown quickly with the global interest in online courses. However, like other dedicated distance-education institutions, UOC has had challenges adapting to MOOCs, and the emergent world of Web 2.0 learning technologies. To meet these challenges, UOC…

J. Michael Spector's academic preparation was in philosophy--epistemology and logic, primarily. His dissertation was on skepticism in modern philosophy, and that led him to a deep-seated appreciation for classical skepticism. The word "skeptic" is derived from the Greek word "skepsis," which means investigation. While the…

Sixteen things to avoid in planning and implementing inservice programs are listed including problems in the areas of faculty involvement, scheduling, flexibility, funding, and non-monetary support. (BD)

This article describes a network among the Commonwealth's 28 smallest countries created to enhance the professional capacity of educators, developing new course materials, and enabling the transfer of courses and qualifications across borders. The focus is on topics such as entrepreneurship, tourism, professional development of educators, life…

Describes videotaped simulations of classroom incidents and interviews intended to elicit faculty discussion about teaching. The use of video as a discussion device is addressed and an analysis of vignette discussions is given. (RAO)

Presents guidelines for effective distance education planning that confront the issues of planning/organization, technology, and faculty development/academic policies. Concludes that understanding the unique characteristics and constraints of any particular program or target audience is the first step in selecting appropriate distance education…

Discusses several barriers to the use of technology, especially computers, including the state of the art of computer software, lack of teacher knowledge and skills in this area, and most important, the present governing structure that supports the traditional organization of education. (MBR)