This paper explores the complex and shifting dimensions of the social, cultural and bodily differences that impact on learners and their learning. Our theoretical argument proceeds in five stages. First, we build a typology of terms used to classify demographic differences for the purposes of designing, implementing and evaluating the…

Discusses paradigm shifts needed in today's evolving information-based society related to distance education. Topics include dissonance between ideals and practice, information technology and global competition, demographic changes, increased costs, resistance to change, the issue of quality, the Internet, research into learning, and curriculum…