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ICDE members have consistently reported that governmental policy towards open and distance learning (ODL) around the world is an issue of concern. In some cases formal limitations are placed on the use of non-traditional teaching forms, often contributing to negative public perceptions of the value of qualifications obtained through online study or other distance teaching methods.
In recognition of this, ICDE asked Dr. Nicholas H. Allen (pictured), Provost Emeritus of University of Maryland University College (UMUC) to chair this Policy Forum entitled Education for All? Access? Equity? Quality? The Policy Forum was attended by heads of open and distance teaching institutions around the globe.
A panel consisting of Prof. Olugbemiro Jegede, Vice-Chancellor and CEO of the National Open University of Nigeria, Dr. Luciano Sathler, Vice-President of the Universidade Anhanguera, Brazil, and ICDE’s General Delegate at UNESCO, Bernard Loing described challenges to ODL, and techniques which have proven successful in combating negative attitudes. Delegates then dispersed in working groups to debate and find answers to specific questions relating to policy barriers and potential strategies for overcoming these.
These discussions are now summarized in a report which will inform the development of ICDE's future strategy in this area.
ICDE expresses its thanks to Dr. Nicholas H. Allen and to Prof. Narend Baijnath, Vice Principal: Strategy, Planning and Partnerships, University of South Africa (Unisa) for their input to and comments on this document.
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8 November 2010