Identifying Barriers Encountered by Women in the Use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) for Open and Distance Learning in the Caribbean: Summary Report

Abstract

Open and distance learning methodologies help girls and women overcome some of the challenges they face in attaining education when the only opportunities available to them are provided through conventional means. With the onslaught of the new information and communications technologies (ICTs) to deliver open and distance learning, however, it is feared that this trend may be reversed and that women may become marginalised in accessing distance education due to issues relating to the use of these technologies. Further, the influx of the new technologies may have an impact on the staff employed to work in distance learning environments. If women are disadvantaged in accessing and using the new technologies, this may influence the type of positions for which they are employed