Learning and Teaching in Distance Education: Analyses and Interpretations from an International Perspective

Citation

Peters, O. (1999), "Learning and Teaching in Distance Education: Analyses and Interpretations from an International Perspective", Education + Training, Vol. 41 No. 8, pp. 384-386. https://doi.org/10.1108/et.1999.41.8.384.3

This is a new title in the now very comprehensive Open and Distance Learning series edited by Fred Lockwood. In this text Peters takes a pedagogical approach to open and distance education and attempts to address aspects of the subject that are often neglected. The study is not limited simply to methods, media and technicalities but also deals with the sociological and psychological implications of, and the cultural conditions for, distance education.

Peters reviews several existing models that permeate current practice and that will influence future practice. Through analysis of the concepts of “dialogue”, “structure” and “autonomy” he challenges many of the cosy attitudes, beliefs and practices which have become all too familiar. Throughout the book the arguments are illustrated with reference to models and practice from places as diverse as China, South Africa, the USA as well as the UK.

The book succeeds in outlining the many problems inherent in distance education but also effectively conveys the opportunities. In this context the sheer enormity and “newness” of digital information and communication technologies presents particular challenges for distance education. Peters is adamant, though, that “pedagogical contemplations” must always take precedence over the understandable enthusiasm for the technology.