A free-standing module requiring 120 hours of study time. Some of this time will be spent on-line communicating with other module participants and tutors. Most of the time will be spent reading set learning material and preparing a weekly off-line task, together with an optional module assignment.
The module will run for 15 weeks from 7 April to 20 July 1997 for the MECPOL user trials.
A good command of English is required. Much of the work on the topic requires on-line discussion and the writing of an assignment. The on-line discussion is NOT real-time, and therefore you will have the chance to prepare your contributions before going on-line.
Centre for Studies in Advanced Learning Technology (C SALT), Department of Educational Research, Lancaster University, UK.
INSTITUTION MODULE CODE: NOL
The Networked Open Learning (NOL) module is about the use of ICT (Information and Communications Technology)-based open and distance learning (ODL) methods for vocational education and training. The module is aimed at professional trainers and educators in industry and in the post-compulsory education sector. The module offers an introduction to the methods of using ICT systems to provide open and distance learning opportunities to trainers and learners in their organisations.
The module covers aspects of the pedagogy and technology of ICT-based ODL and involves both theoretical issues and practical perspectives. A key feature of the module is to guide participants through the full ODL development life-cycle: from initial feasibility study and requirements analysis, through design and implementation, to evaluation.
The module explores contemporary tools and systems that offer support for networked learning: such as the World Wide Web; groupware; computer conferencing and email; and online databases. In particular we will be using tailored versions of Lotus Domino, designed for all communication on the module.
After completion of the module, participants will be positioned to initiate and to effectively develop ODL provision within their own organisation. By using ICT-based ODL to learn about ICT-based ODL, participants will gain direct experience of the medium. The synergy created from learning online about learning networks will also enable a direct interpretation of the key research presented as well as of the case study literature that we will provide. In addition, participants will be directed towards a range of resources and additional materials from the field that they may draw upon in their future professional work.
The online network we will use is designed to support participants in sharing their experiences and supporting each other in their learning. The network will remain accessible beyond the period of study on the module. This will be a useful forum for continuing access to professional colleagues in the field of ICT-based open and distance learning.
The module is designed to support people interested in and wanting to develop their skills and knowledge in the development of open learning networks.
The module is for professional development and is based around:
Each topic has an overview to help you understand the theme of the topic and the key issues that will be addressed. Topics also makes use of carefully selected study materials with notes to explain why each reading was chosen. In addition we will guide you through some focused individual activities relating to each topic. Each topic also has a listing of additional resources, including Web-based materials to enable you to explore the subject matter more deeply in the future.
The module design and approach is based around the use of the online network. Participants will be expected to read and contribute regularly to the topic discussions, as well as to the topic tasks and activities. Participants will be able to share resources with each other, including Web sites and sources.
The module is organised as a set of topics. The opening topics set the scene for the module, identifying the key issues and debates in ICT-based ODL and introducing some exemplar case studies. The module is then designed to guide you through the full NOL development life-cycle: from initial feasibility study and requirements analysis; through design and implementation; to evaluation. In addition, the module has a topic for the management of ICT-based ODL development projects and a topic that explores the monitoring and management of online learning environments. The module concludes with reflective activity and assessment for you to integrate and consolidate your learning from each of the different elements in the programme.
The module consists of the following topics:
Anyone with an interest in the use of technology to support teaching and learning through the use of NOL-based ODL.
You will need access to a computer and the Internet using a World-Wide Web browser such as Netscape (version 2.x or above) or MS Internet Explorer (version 2.x or above).
You will need to purchase module books and find readings from a list supplied. Alternatively they may be ordered from the module organiser.
To receive a certificate of completion participants on the course will have to: - show an overall reasonable level of good quality conference participation. This means that they should contribute on a number of topics, and that contributions should demonstrate that they have read something on the topic and have attempted one of the topic tasks.
This topic has a 12 CATS points credit
rating in the UK.
(A full masters module = 120 CATS points)
The normal means of communication will be computer-based conferencing. You will be expected to communicate regularly with the tutors and other module members.
Tutors are:
Prof. Peter Goodyear, Mr Patrick Hynes, Dr. Julie-Ann Sime, Ms Christine Steeples, Dr. Karen Valley from Lancaster University, UK.
No fees for MECPOL partner students who find their own books and readings, otherwise £950.00 (pounds sterling) for other course members.
If you already have access to the World Wide Web there is no additional cost. If you pay telephone charges related to your use of the Internet, then you will have to meet the cost of additional call charges.
If you would like to register for this module, or you have any other queries, please contact:
Module Organiser- Alice Jesmont
C SALT (Centre for Studies in Advanced Learning Technology)
File created: 24/02/97, Patrick Hynes. Last Modified 13/03/97