A discussion of issues and considerations in planning for the opening of distance education institutions in developing and developed nations draws on the experience of recently established institutions and looks at government involvement, the political process, and the role, composition, schedule, and reports of planning committees. (MSE)

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,…

These aspects of three European open universities in Great Britain, Spain, and West Germany are discussed: the impetus to establish distance teaching universities, academic programs, student characteristics, production of graduates, teaching media, costs (Britain only), academic standards, and overall success. (MSE)

Examines the vulnerability of distance teaching universities (DTUs) around the world to competition both from campus-based universities that are initiating distance teaching and from dual mode universities that have traditionally offered a range of teaching methods. Costs are considered, and the future feasibility of single mode universities is…

This 10-section report on the activities of the Open University of the United Kingdom as an innovative institution with a concern for democratization of higher education begins with a discussion of the criteria for an innovative organization. The origins of the University and the intentions of its early planners are then discussed, followed by a…

Examines the cost structure and future system costs of Venezuela's Universidad Nacional Abierta, compares them with the costs of other distance universities, and discusses the cost implications of media choice, size of program, and number of students. The usefulness of cost analysis and projection for decision making is also discussed. (EAO)

Attempts to draw comparisons between the different ways that distance education methods have been used for postsecondary education. Emphasizes the differences in scale, curricula, teaching approaches, and resource levels at different institutions in different nations. Explores problems such as lack of discussion, inflexibility, high cost of…

Costa Rica's Universidad Estatal a Distancia (UNED), the education system in the country, and information on Costa Rica are considered. UNED is helping to equalize geographical inequalities of access to higher education. Overall, UNED's academic programs have been aimed at those who want to obtain professional qualifications. In the first semester…