The Commonwealth of Learning

Reports on Sectoral Developments and Issues Round Table Session 2, Monday, 1 March 1999

The following reports were presented at the Round Table on Sectoral Development Issues, held on the first day of the Pan-Commonwealth Forum.  The session was chaired by Dr. Ros Morpeth, Director, National Extension College, UK. 

By clicking on the title, you can view and/or print an Acrobat (.pdf) file of the full paper.  Acrobat files can be sized at any percentage for viewing on your screen, but you may find the paper more readable by printing it. 

Please note:
These papers have not been subjected to an editorial process by The Commonwealth of Learning.
The views and opinions expressed therein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect official policies or positions of The Commonwealth of Learning.

• Open schooling: issues and challenges
  Richard Siaciwena, University of Zambia
  Abstract: Every government in the world has an obligation to provide education to all its citizens, chiefly because education is not only a human right but is also a critical factor in economic development and poverty reduction. In particular basic (primary and secondary) education helps reduce poverty "by increasing the productivity of the poor, by reducing fertility and improving health and by equipping people with the skills they need to participate in the economy and in society". (World Bank, 1995: 1).   Many governments have developed a variety of strategies for developing education and training programmes. 1hese include experimentation with innovative approaches and technologies such as open and distance learning. In particular the challenge of implementing goals for universalisation of primary education and the need to increase access to secondary education has contributed to the development and expansion of open schooling.  This paper outlines the development of open schooling, describes examples of open schooling and discusses the role of open schooling in increasing access to quality basic education especially to out of school children.

• Non-formal education at a distance: a framework for discussion
  Barbara Spronk, International Extension College, UK
  Abstract: The aim of this paper is to explore the definition of non formal education and to provide a framework for discussion by establishing characteristics, categories, issues and current developments.

• Technical and vocational education
  Shona Butterfield, The Open Polytechnic of New Zealand
  Abstract: As we move from the industrial era into the knowledge age, the shape of the world of work is changing dramatically. In the emerging knowledge driven economy, the ability to learn and to process information effectively becomes the determining factor of prosperity. This paper examines trends, developments and issues in vocational education and training from a New Zealand perspective. Changing work patterns have been reflected in the diverse products and services provided by vocational education providers. New markets, business and partnerships have been established and participation has increased dramatically. Open learning in vocational education has much to offer the world of work because it is responsive, flexible, promotes independent learning, can be set up in a way that fosters teamwork as well as individual achievement and the immediate transfer of skills in the work setting. Open learning also reinforces qualities of self-reliance, mobility and rapid adjustment to change needed for survival in tomorrow’s world. That level of quality can only be met if the objectives are very clear, and both the process of learning and the system requirements for supporting that process are well understood.

• Business-led approach to open learning
  Tony Horsfield, Financial Times Management
  Abstract: There is a trend throughout the world for organizations to invest predominately in development that will support their business goals and change. Organizations are also increasingly expecting individual members of their workforce to manage their own learning and commit a great proportion of their free time to company-led learning initiatives. Open Learning is seen by many organizations as on ideal vehicle for developing their people, so long as the development results in a competent work force and an improvement in business performance.

• University learning and learning universities: collaboration or competition?
  Marlene Hamilton, The University of the West Indies
  Abstract: The paper addresses several issues which impact on distance learning at university level including the tension between collaboration and competition. The focus on access, bears a direct relation to a number of concerns such as the ability of distance learning to provide for flexibility of study, for addressing the needs of persons in areas of low population density, and for transcending geographical boundaries. A comment on financial implications is also offered. A brief look is then taken at practice and staff development. In addition, a number of other concerns are highlighted for future consideration.

Other Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning keynote and plenary presentations

 Top of the document

 COL Home Page
THE COMMONWEALTH of LEARNING