Open University courses are defined as processes of interaction between students, the materials, and the tutors. Using this definition, the stages of course development, major purposes of feedback, and major audiences for feedback are discussed with particular emphasis on the role of the tutor and student in course development. (JMF)

Student involvement in educational planning is of importance in ensuring that programs remain responsive to student needs. Such a fundamental shift in perspective in the role of the student requires significant changes, both in attitudes and practices within higher education. To aid in the development of this new role this document draws together…

Examines the nature of external doctoral education, particularly as it pertains to nursing. While such nontraditional programs provide new learning structures and expand available options, disadvantages include separation from student support services, full-time faculty, and library facilities. Discusses accreditation, residency requirements,…

Describes a college curriculum in which formal examinations are abolished (students are assessed by the work presented in assignments) and certificates at the Bachelor Degree level do not differentiate between pass and honours students. (LS)

Three challenges that face distance educators at the national, institute, and individual subject level in Australia are discussed in a set of Occasional Papers by the Riverina-Murray Institute of Higher Education (RMIHE). Australia is undergoing a period of major change. The binary system of universities and colleges of advanced education is…

A procedure for course evaluation at Britain's Open University is described. Justification for obtaining feedback from students, audiences for the data, and intended uses in the maintenance of courses are outlined. (JMF)

Project Transition, an experimental program for adult learners, includes a curriculum based on the expressed needs of students. Areas covered in the seminars include the psychology of adulthood, valuing, the future, career development, midlife changes, and learning as adults. Seminars are divided into stages: engagement, sharing leadership,…

The paper presents some of the organizing principles that have emerged in the process of designing higher education programs for adults. The analysis relies on some of the recent research and literature on adult development, life stages, and learning interests. The organizing principles were not predetermined, but have resulted from years of…

The way that the Open University system in Great Britain operates and the use of the mass media are discussed in detail. A number of problems the adult student is likely to face are identified, along with basic differences between U.S. and British societies that influence the application of an open university approach. Attention is directed to:…

A project undertaken at the Graduate School of Public Health of the University of Pittsburgh to develop an undergraduate external degree program in health services administration with a major in long-term care administration is described. Program activities were designed to: develop a work plan, identify the parameters of knowledge and skills…

At Metropolitan State University, the Individualized Educational Planning Course was a response to adult students' unique curriculum needs. Students learn university expectations of quality; plan solid, individualized degrees; examine what it means to be an educated person; pursue knowledge actively and successfully through informed choices; and…

The College of New Rochelle's School of New Resources is described including: adult participation in decision making (selection and development of courses, faculty recruitment, and courses and programs evaluation), and descriptions of extension centers and campuses (AFSCME-AFL/CIO, Co-op City, South Bronx, New York Theological Seminary, and…

The Open University is recognized as a model of innovation in higher education, not merely for advances in the use of communications technology, but also for demonstrating the applications of such principles of technology as systems design, division of labor, and management by objectives to the educational tasks of course development, instruction,…

Described are the investigatory procedures, research and development, and achievements and conclusions for each of 12 work assignments for the 13-month period from January 1, 1974 through January 31, 1975 relating to the University of Mid-America (UMA). UMA is a regional consortium, comprised of the University of Kansas, Kansas State University,…

The papers presented at the meeting describe new directions in higher education and a variety of innovations in nursing education both nationally and in the southern region. Included also are annual reports of studies and surveys about nursing in the south. Among the topics covered are: an external degree program; modes of student progression;…