Addresses the questions of terminology, definition, and identification in an effort to contribute to the theory of distance education. Suggests that "distance education" is the most satisfactory solution to the problem of terminology. (Available: School of External Studies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, 167 Franklin Street,…

The authors studied a course in which an instructor allowed individuals at a distance to participate. Although these students were not formally enrolled in the university where the class took place, the instructor gave them full access to all course materials and encouraged them to complete course assignments. The authors examined the time and…

An analysis of four definitions of distance education from which are chosen six main components for a comprehensive definition. The article delineates the field of distance education and recommends some unanimity regarding terminology. (EAO)

This paper discusses the role of mentors in individualized learning at Empire State College. This individualized learning program and the components of the role of mentor are defined and illustrated. (Available: School of External Studies, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, 167 Franklin Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia.) (CT)

Provides a Chinese perspective on the debate concerning industrialization theory and distance education. Argues that higher education in China has a "craft-like" nature and China's Radio and TV Higher Education (RTVHE) represents one of the most industrialized forms of education in the world. Notes that RTVHE is in transition from…

Reviews research results and arguments supporting Keller's Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) as a paradigm for distance learning, describes a project at Athabasca University which compared various PSI configurations for distance learning, and discusses the advantages, disadvantages, and flexibility of PSI for such use. Nineteen references…

Suggests that bureaucratic practice can best be understood from within the Fordist framework, and that the distinction between machine and bureaucracy is no longer as significant as the distinction between bureaucracy and postbureaucracy. Notes the significance of these issues in distance education and open learning policies and practices.…

The reunification process in Germany and its effect on distance education policies and practices in the East provide an occasion to test the relevance of the Fordist framework. Discussion includes characteristics of a neo- or post-Fordist distance education system, the failure of Fordism as a theory of industrialized society, and the Fordism…

Describes the design, implementation, and results of a project which investigated the needs of adult correspondence students outside the Open University and the effectiveness of a local counselling system in helping them to complete their courses successfully. Ways of providing and supporting such services are considered. (EAO)

Describes a strategy for obtaining student feedback for improvement of external mathematics courses and the design of short questionnaires used frequently and regularly for this purpose. Questionnaires become more specific as the learning difficulties are revealed and help students to think critically about the course and their involvement in it.…

Defines an approach to the evaluation of autonomous multimedia distance learning systems which covers both the institution's overall performance and specific features within the institution. Aspects of evaluation discussed include design of evaluation systems as well as evaluating output, cost-effectiveness, curriculum, instructional resources,…

Post-Fordism and globalization are interrelated contemporary features of social and economic development. Individual, social, and educational issues concerned with globalization are discussed in relation to the emerging post-Fordism forms and practices of open and distance education, and to the cross-cultural contexts involved. (Author/AEF)

Reports on an innovative use of voice mail to support students studying law through distance education. Advantages include cost effectiveness, minimal isolation, and means for spontaneity. Possible uses include covering developments in dynamic disciplines after cut-off time, extending "shelf-life" of printed materials, and providing…

Presents views of three faculty members at Penn State about online distance instruction. Discusses their opinions on interaction with students; whether online courses are demanding; instructional effectiveness; faculty support; student profiles; and reasons for distance education. (AEF)

Distance education may be considered in two ways: (1) as a substitute for conventional, face-to-face education; and (2) as a mode of education in its own right. Those who view distance education the first way treat students as members of a class and include a fixed schedule of classes, assignments, and course duration. Those viewing distance…