The Economics of Open Learning via the Internet in the United Kingdom

Abstract

PCF1 // The Technology-Assisted Lifelong Learning programme at the University of Oxford has been developing courses for students to take from around the world through the medium of the Internet. In this paper I examine the costs of developing these courses, and compare them with alternative modes of delivery. The courses we have been developing are all targeted at adult students. They may be taking the courses for personal enrichment, professional and career development or to equip them better to pursue an amateur endeavour. I am not considering here the relative costs of delivering conventional undergraduate courses via the Internet as substantially different factors apply. //