Objectives

At the end of this session you should be able to:

1. Determine the need for a distance learning program;
   
2. Create a procedure to determine the needs and feasibility for studying at a distance.
   
3. Name the problems faced by the distance learner; and
   
4. Describe the type and nature of learner support required for distance learning.
   

Read:

• Simonson, et. al, Chapter 7
  

Refer to:

Willis, B (1994) Distance Education: Strategies and Tools. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Educational Technology Publications.
Chapters 3 and 4

http://www.uidaho.edu/evo/distglan.html, Guide #9

The Willis book is on reserve in the CRC. Scan some of the other publications on reserve (not listed here) to see what they have to say on this topic. If you have done some work on needs assessment with Roger Kaufman, try to relate his approach to this topic.

Focus Questions:

1. What factors determine the need for distance education? Are they political, economic, geographic or all of these? Are there other factors?
   
2. When is it appropriate to consider establishment of a distance education program? What conditions foster it? What factors hinder its implementation?
   
3. What are the major problems faced by learners in distance education programs?
   
4. What are the elements of a student support system? Which are essential? Which are "nice" (but not essential) to provide?