A study is reported of the use of simulations as a method of assessing pharmacy doctoral candidates' efficiency of information retrieval, recognition of therapeutic incompatibilities, recommendation of alternatives, communication skills, familiarity with drug information resources, and apparent knowledge base. (MSE)

Describes the practical problems encountered by one group of people, in one institution, when different disciplines were combined in the production of a course about the theory of curriculum design. (Author/RK)

In the 1980s, nontraditional education is becoming an outdated term, because elements of such education have been integrated into most colleges and universities. The major innovation within nontraditional education is the external degree. Valley developed six major models of external degrees: administrative facilitation, modes of learning, the…

This paper outlines the method and theoretical basis for establishing and implementing an independent study music curriculum. The curriculum combines practical and theoretical paradigms and leads to an external degree. The computer, in direct interaction with the student, is the primary instructional tool, and the teacher is involved in indirect…

Characteristics of both successful and unsuccessful tutors at the Open University are illustrated, based on first-hand observation of staff members. Areas covered include: knowledge and handling of subject matter, general teaching skills, classroom skills, social competence, values and work rate, administrative competence, and style. (LBH)

In 1982 the University of West Florida (UWF) transferred control of one of its off-campus center locations to a sister institution. The loss of the center reduced UWF College of Education enrollment by 194 students. A two-year effort in developing the graduate school at the site resulted in an increase of 195 students enrolled in graduate-level…

The success of distance teaching depends largely on students' comprehension and appreciation of print communication. A communication gap exists, and many students are unable to recognize levels of complexity presented to them. Changes in course structure can help alleviate this learning problem. (MSE)

The Off-Campus Degree Program at Linfield College (Oregon) provides quality coursework to a group of part-time adult students who would not otherwise have access to a four-year degree program. In 1980, Linfield joined six other institutions to form the National University Consortium (NUC), the first national organization of colleges and…

Presents results of a market research survey conducted by Athabasca University to determine interest in a natural resources planning and management home study degree program. Responses related to employment prospects, usefulness for professional development, home-study options, degree offerings, proposed program design, and format of proposed…

This study evaluated the appropriateness of the Program in Higher Education offered at Nova University (Florida) for persons employed in full-time staff positions in religious colleges and universities. Current students (N=28) and six graduates were surveyed and a 60% return rate was obtained. Analysis of survey results indicated: (1) very high…

This guide provides an in-depth look at distance learning. It lists hundreds of currently available undergraduate, master's, doctoral, and professional certificate programs. The courses listed are all offered for credit or certification by a growing number of accredited "electronic universities" that deliver their classwork via personal…

Describes a study which surveyed teaching staff at Brisbane College of Advanced Education to determine their attitudes toward various aspects of the college's external studies program, i.e., general information, development of instructional materials, the teaching process, and the administrative process. Responses are reported item by item and…

Results of a survey of U.S. and Canadian optometry programs concerning curriculum design, clinical and residency training programs, continuing education, and research projects planned or under way in geriatric optometry are presented and discussed. (MSE)

This book challenges the notion that the open university is a recent invention and argues that in Britain there is a long and varied tradition of similar developments, and that there has been a significant 20th century reduction in the openness of universities, particularly in the period from the 1950s to the 1970s. Selected examples of open…

This guide for adults who are seeking external degrees offers guidance for selecting such a program and a listing of 140 accredited programs. The five chapters of part 1 provide an introduction to external degree opportunities. Chapter 1 briefly considers the multiple ways in which today's adults can continue their education. Chapter 2 explains…