The Art of the Possible: issues of learner support in open and distance learning in low income countries

Abstract

Although the quotation above uses language which sounds rather dated fifteen years on, questioning the assumption that distance learning practices established in one context can translate into new ones remains valid. As is well documented, there are many approaches to providing a learner support system in open and distance education. The ways in which this support is provided will vary considerably depending on a wide range of factors. This paper reflects on the existing approaches to learner support, with a particular focus on lower income countries, and gives examples of how such support is provided in a wide range of circumstances. It does not try to identify ideal models but rather provides a range of principles on which learner support systems may be based and gives some examples of how these systems have been developed in a number of institutions.