Flexible Approaches to a Changing Learning Environment in Australia

Abstract

PCF1 // Universities within developed countries have faced two decades of economic, political and sociocultural change that have both shaped the context within which they must operate and generated particular pressures for a new, more flexible teaching and learning climate. The authors contend that many of the attributes and characteristics of successful distance education programs are well suited to the demands now being placed upon higher education institutions as they attempt to reinvent their future. This paper attempts a progression of information and ideas from these global events and developments, to the national responses developed by government and higher education within Australia. Finally, the authors consider the actions taken in their own institution, the University of South Australia. //