Computer-Mediated Environment and Learner Support

This study examines the effective use of computer-mediated environments (CME) for online learning, networking, and teach¬ing in the context of Open University course H804, 'The Imple¬mentation of Open and Distance Learning'. He contends that an effective approach requires a learner-centred focus, taking into account the practitioners' views of learner support in open and distance learning. He concentrates on a particular 6-week period when the students were discussing 'learner support in open and distance education', partly because of the importance of learner support in a computer-mediated environment, but more importantly because he believes that this study will yield a richer understanding of what learner support means in a computer-mediated environment. Colleges and universities are well placed to respond to these aspirations by embracing e-learning technologies, because most governments want to raise the education level and skills of their population. E-learning has the potential to transform education at every level; it can make a high-quality educational experience available and extend access to those whose location and economic and personal circumstances have prevented them from pursuing educational goals in the past. These learn¬ers also represent a wider student market for universities and other educational institutions. The common objectives of these institutions are raising quality and standards, meeting diverse needs, widening participation, building skills for employ¬ability, and motivating learners to develop new skills for the 21st century. This book is important for all in education seeking to harnass communication technology to their advantage.