Virtual University, Flexible Learning: How Far Have We Come?

Abstract

Virtual university, flexible learning: How far have we come? 2 nd Boot Camp for Educators from Member States of the Commonwealth, held at the National Institute of Education, Singapore 12 March 2007 by: Paul West, Director, Knowledge Management and Information Technology and Sir John Daniel, President and CEO, Commonwealth of Learning // While there are some significant differences between the member countries, they all experience similar natural and economic threats and have populations of under 4.5 million; mostly much less than 4.5 million, making them tiny players in a world where most countries are much bigger and wealthier. // Small States are remote, so travel can be excessively expensive for citizens wanting to participate in collaborative projects with other countries. However, all VUSSC countries now have Internet access and connectivity for their educators and learners improves by the day. It is this Internet access and the so-called "web2" environment that makes it possible for small states, no matter how remote, to be a full part of any initiative, anywhere. // The boot camp that starts today will provide participants with an opportunity to become immersed in the online technologies that bridge distances. This is immersion training in the technologies that support education.