Explores the impact that electronic business is likely to have on the growth of open and distance learning. Discusses global consortia and global virtual universities; technological developments, including Web qualities; value chains; pricing models; the importance of scale; operating efficiencies; and increasing competition. (Author/LRW)

This article seeks to accomplish three objectives. The first is to interrogate the efficacy of the African Virtual University (AVU), which is a satellite and information technology (IT)-based distance education system, sponsored by the World Bank in Kenya. The second is to demonstrate the failures of the AVU and the reasons why this has been the…

Very often, when using a chat tool where more than one participant is talking simultaneously, it is difficult to follow the conversation, read all the different messages and work out who is talking to whom about what. This problem has been dubbed "Chat Confusion." This article investigates this problem in debate sessions in an online university…

Whereas distance education was formerly on the periphery of education and in the realm of institutions with questionable academic credentials, it has been gradually gaining acceptance, is becoming mainstreamed, and is being embraced by traditional universities. The use of distance technologies is challenging the traditional structures of higher…

This study examines Finnish college students' views on learning in a virtual university. Respondents studied at Helsinki Virtual Open University (HEVI) and the Apaja Internet Service from 1995-99. HEVI is a Web-based learning environment where students can study, get advice, receive help from tutors, and use office services. Apaja Internet Service…

California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo is exploring several cost-effective technological solutions to improve learning productivity, reduce labor intensity, and provide new ways to deliver education and better services to students while enhancing quality of instruction. Strategic planning and partnerships have been key…

Discusses the use of a personal Web home page and university Internet facilities to support teaching activity at the University Fernando Pessoa (Portugal). Topics include a requirement for students to have laptop computers; local-area networks; changing educational paradigms; the need for user support; and a framework for evaluation. (Author/LRW)

Many policymakers and educators see the advancement of educational technology as potentially increasing enrollment of the educationally disadvantaged over time. However, who will benefit most from these changes remains unclear. The nature of the new delivery systems and their impact on educational access and equity are examined here. (MSE)

Proposes how to utilize a virtual environment to enhance learning and teaching activities in formal higher education. Predicts that future higher education will still require a campus equipped with information technologies to be used to improve student participation, provide asynchronous learning support, conduct field-based learning, and handle…

Ten possible trends on college campuses are examined. They include distance learning; rehabilitation of existing buildings; use of construction management firms; salaries for facilities directors; virtual universities; off-site garages; outside residence hall contractors; classrooms in residential buildings; and smart cards for entry and…

Considers whether the current transformation of higher education has its roots in medieval universities. Topics include corporate and virtual universities; the adaptation of new technologies, especially the Internet; affordability; the development of critical thinking skills; and students as customers. (LRW)

Discussion of the future of higher education focuses on the issues of quality and assessment, particularly for online institutions like the University of Phoenix. Topics include money spent per student on assessment; retention and degree completion rates; and regional accrediting associations. (LRW)

Discusses virtual universities and the design of Web courses. Topics include current traditional college courses; computer assisted instruction; reconsidering education; why professors teach; what they teach; what students expect; how employers view graduates; certification; why knowledge is overrated; goal-based course design; and conceptual…

Describes a new model of advisement services for online learners that was developed at Capella University, a totally virtual campus. Discusses advisors' training, that included learning about the characteristics of adult learners and differences between online learning and traditional settings; and a course that teaches online learning strategies.…

The popularity of the master's of business administration (MBA) degree has resulted in booming enrollments in the United States and around the world. In the late 1990s, the MBA degree seemed to be in danger of being taken over by trends in high technology. First, for-profit providers gained students and credibility to such an extent that respected…