This paper describes the effects of collaborative support on groups of distance learners of General Certificate of Secondary Education mathematics. Two experiments are described. In each case, learners were provided with teleconferencing with peers, experts and mentors in addition to structured study materials. No improvements were noticed in…

This paper reviews research on learner and tutor interaction in asynchronous computer-mediated (ACM) conferences used in distance learning. The authors note claims made for the potential of ACM conferences to promote higher-order critical inquiry and the social construction of knowledge, and argue that there is a general lack of evidence regarding…

This paper considers different uses of asynchronous discussion in distance education, highlighting the benefits to learners and the issues that need to be considered. The context is the use of computer conferencing by distance learners of technology at the UK Open University. The paper focuses on two courses where computer conferencing has been…

Contrasts the dominant view of distance education as mass production and independent study (industrial model) with an emerging view incorporating interactive communications technology and personalized and collaborative learning (postindustrial model). Argues that computer conferencing is the most feasible and effective postindustrial technology…

Suggests that interactive group communication technologies, like computer conferencing, de-industrializes the distance education process and hence increases costs. Discusses constructivism, computer mediated communication, programs at Athabasca University (Canada), and implications for distance and campus-based universities. (Author/LRW)

Examines the history of distance education in terms of its ability to foster communicative action. Discusses Habermas's Theory of Communicative Action; Critical Theory; rationality; the role of technology in distance education; correspondence study; multimedia instruction; computer-mediated distance education; and the potential for interactivity…

Reports on an innovative approach to delivering a university graduate course on distance education using several media at Pennsylvania State University. Topics include course design; teamwork; video; printed study guide; computer conferencing; audio conferencing; and designing for interaction. (Author/LRW)

Discussion of audioteleconferencing highlights the possibilities of telephone technology, student-teacher interaction, peer interaction, face-to-face interaction versus distance education, the role of tutors or faculty, and the need for more extensive training for students and tutors. (LRW)

The School of Post-Compulsory Education and Training (PCET) of the University of Greenwich (London), whose main purpose is to provide initial training and professional development for teachers, trainers, and lectures, provides a distance-learning program. This article discusses the program and the piloting of a groupware product that permits…

Describes a case study of indigenous tertiary students in the Remote Area Teaching Education Program (RATEP) at James Cook University (Australia) that found that audioconferencing can be an effective learning tool in cross-cultural distance and open learning contexts to promote student retention, a community of interactive and critical learners,…

Outlines and evaluates the use of landlines for multisite video conferencing at the University of Ulster. Developments in video conferencing are described, increased opportunities for continuing and higher education for part-time students in Northern Ireland are discussed, initial reactions of students and teachers are reported, and future plans…