Strategies for Sustainable Open And Distance Learning

Adaptability and the ability to handle rapid and ongoing change are essential for successfully managing any modern educational enterprise, and open and distance learning is no exception.

In an often over-looked field, this volume examines the nature of sustainability in open and distance learning using case material from a wide range of current educational contexts worldwide. The books themes include:

• reflection and analysis of the management of change
• collaboration
• staff development
• quality assurance and funding in an increasingly globalized environment.

This book also reassesses the core processes involved in course development, delivery, and student support, in a world that is both linked and divided by access to the latest technologies.

In a rapidly changing world, this book shows how the path from policy to sustainable practice is rarely easy. However, through consistent attention and commitment to meeting the needs of learners, sustainability can be achieved.

Andrea Hope has worked in the administration of higher education in Hong Kong since 1990, when she became Registrar of its fledgling Open Learning Institute (now Open University). She has been responsible for academic development at both public and private institutions and is currently Associate Academic Vice President of Shue Yan College, which aims to become Hong Kong’ first private university. From 2001 to 2003, she was the Education Specialist (Higher Education) at the Commonwealth of Learning.

Patrick Guiton is an independent distance education consultant who lives in Fremantle Western Australia. He was foundation Director of External Studies at Murdoch University 1974-94 and prior to that appointment he was a deputy regional director in the British Open University. Experience as a mature-age student led him to develop a particular interest in access to educational opportunity and in the support services required for successful study.