The Open University has always served distance learners, and the aims of the Open University Learning Design Initiative are to support more effective, technology-enhanced and learner-centred design of distance learning opportunities.

Other institutions have moved into the distance learning market on a smaller scale, and/or are offering programmes that involve some element of off-campus study. So distance learners make up an increasingly large proportion of learners accessing post-compulsory opportunities, and distance learning principles are increasingly relevant to the design of programmes. Also, many predominantly face-to-face programmes incorporate elements of remote learning, for example while on placement, undertaking fieldwork, during periods of research or self-directed learning, and on secondments or years abroad. At these points in the curriculum, technology can help learners to stay in touch with their course of study, their cohort and tutors, while benefiting from independence and authentic situations for learning.

Projects that have worked with remote learners include:

Distance learners: Atelier-D, COWL, Duckling
Work-based learners and CPD: COWL, Duckling, MoRSE, CoEducate

Students on field trips: MoRSE
Students on placement/clinical attachment: MoRSE, Making the new Diploma a success, Generation 4

 
GIS laboratory in the field - enhanced the ability of students to share data and for the first time complete a GIS project (from data collection, through analysis and interpretation to the delivery of a final product) while still in the field. The students were also exposed to current technologies used in industry in realistic field based problem environments. (MoRSE)

Case studies

• ESCAPE case study - Developing research skills through group poster presentations
• Lewisham Asus Eee PC case study

• Duckling case study E-book readers in Occupational Psychology

• Duckling case study E-book readers in Education

• Duckling case study Podcasting in Occupational Psychology

• Duckling case study Podcasting in Education

• Duckling case study Second Life in Occupational Psychology

• Duckling case study Second Life in Education

• Duckling case study Voice boards in Education

• MORSE - Geography fieldtrips case study
• Atelier-D Using an Online Design Studio Environment
• Atelier_D Mapping of Design Thinking and Practice
• Atelier-D Collaborative Design in Second Life
• Atelier-D Social Network for Design Learners
• Atelier_D Conferencing to Support Collaborative Group Work
• Atelier-D Peer Asessment in Design

Resources

View all assets in the Design Studio tagged with 'distance learners', 'fieldwork', 'placements', 'remote learners'