This document discusses the potential for open and distance learning in Asia. It notes that while distance education aims to overcome physical barriers, connectivity issues can still limit its reach. Developed countries are focused on expanding existing distance education methods, while underdeveloped countries see it as a way to address educational inadequacies. The document outlines challenges like differing learning styles, technology access, faculty support, and quality assurance. However, it argues that distance education continues to grow in acceptance and provides solutions to complex problems by expanding educational opportunities throughout Asia and the world.

1. and
Potential
for Open and Distance Learning Harry Carley
in Asia Kikuma, Japan
EDU 8719

2. Introduction
 DE attempts to negate the vastness of
the world along with the differences in
phyical time.
 It’s true expansionism is only beginning.

3. Connectivity
• All access to DE is not created equally.
• Technical details aside it is a very real problem.
• Lack of sufficient connectivity can add
frustration, defeating motivation and lead to DE
learners dropping out or not completing their
courses.
• Adequate download times are essential.

4. Developed vs.
Underdeveloped Countries
Differing attitudes toward the
implementation of DE.
Developed Countries – expansion of current methods.
Underdeveloped Countries – a change to catch up ,
quick fix for current inadequacies

5. Asian Perspective
• Huge area
• Many differing countries and cultures
• Learning styles may differ causing conflict
with the individualism of DE

6. Future Distance Learning
• Greatest challenge
+Mobility
• Smart phones and tablet computing
-- May add to the distance of DE between those of
Developed and Underdeveloped countries.
+ Expansion of potential students through
Lifelong learning

7. Faculty Compensation / Support
What about… those that teach the courses ?
 Extra time and tech. know how
 Extra training
 New curriculum development

8. Quality of courses and
assessment
What are the limits and measures used
for adjusting the subject matter to meet
the needs and requirements of the students,
Instructors, and host learning institution?

9. Inclusive Difficulties
• Resistance on the part of governments to
expedite funds.
• Investment on the part of brick & mortar
institutions for high priced technology
• Reluctance to change on the part of older
faculty.

10. Wide Ranging Benefits
• Flexible nature to learning
• Assistance to displaced learners in outlying areas.
• Expands opportunities for women
• Where Campus based institutions are few
• Lack of sufficient numbers of teachers
in the real world

11. Conclusion
• Continues to spread and become
accepted throughout the globe.
• Way for countries to ‘catch up’
• Solutions to the most complex of problems

12. Thank you
and
Happy distance Learning!
For those interested in learning more;
The 26th Annual Conference of Asian Association of Open Universities
http://aaou2012.ouj.ac.jp/index.html
AAOU 2012 - Chiba, Japan 16-18 Oct.
Harry Carley, Kikuma, Japan