Print version Recommend this page Press release
44/ 2007
Bonn, 18.10.2007
Distance learning today - Internet-based and quality-assured
The Internet is (virtually) a must for modern distance learning offerings: Today, nearly two-thirds of all distance learning providers in Germany already make extensive use of the means offered by the World Wide Web as an enabling technology. And even those who currently do not (yet) conduct this type of Internet-based distance learning programme are convinced of the advantages these offerings have to offer. The expanded didactics and technical means in combination with systematic quality assurance measures make it easier to be responsive to the wide variety of learning styles to be found among learners and boost the attractiveness of Internet-based distance learning programmes. These are the findings from a survey of more than 400 distance learning providers conducted by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training ("BIBB").
The respondents gave Internet-based distance learning courses positive marks, particularly because it is easy for students to communicate with one another, their instructors and advisors and because each individual can repeatedly use digital learning content at any time as desired. Those respondents (some 22%) who do not (yet) recognize any added value in Internet-based offerings say that the group targeted by Internet-based distance learning often does not have sufficient EDP skills. This group of respondents also considers Internet-based learning phases in front of one's computer at home to be an inadequate alternative to phases where physical attendance is compulsory.
Providers of Internet-based distance learning courses are increasingly using "blended learning" to eliminate the weaknesses of this somewhat sceptically viewed "pure" e-learning. Blended learning attaches great importance not only to individual learning phases at one's own computer at home but also to the use of supporting instruction personnel (teletutors) and flanking phases during which class attendance is mandatory. The majority of providers accordingly expect their teletutors to have relevant skills and qualifications.
Asked about the future of new technologies in distance learning courses, the providers surveyed indicated that "wikis" and "podcasts" would become increasingly important. By contrast, less use is expected to be made of Web 2.0 technologies.
Providers write "quality" with a particularly large "Q" when it comes to making distance learning courses more attractive. More than 70% of the providers surveyed confirm that the licensing procedure that is used in Germany pursuant to the Act to Protect Distance Learning Participants is very important for ensuring quality. Moreover, some three-fourths of the respondents use their own quality assurance and development tools in their operations. According to the survey findings, self-evaluation procedures predominate. However, approximately one out of every three providers surveyed also make use of comprehensive quality management systems such as DIN EN ISO 9001.
The Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training ("BIBB") has the legislated mandate to analyse developments in the distance learning field, advise providers of distance learning programmes, conduct development projects and research projects with the aim of improving vocational distance learning and assess vocational distance learning courses in collaboration with the Zentral¬stelle für Fernunterricht (Central Office for Distance Learning).
A summary of the survey findings and a detailed analysis of all the findings can be accessed in German at the BIBB homepage at www.bibb.de/de/wlk9854.htm
Points of contact at BIBB for further information:
- Angela Fogolin, Tel.: +49 (0) 228 / 107-1427; E-mail: fogolin@bibb.de
- Willi Schmitz, Tel.: +49 (0) 228 / 107-1528; E-mail: schmitz@bibb.de
