The International Research Foundation for Open Learning (IRFOL) 

Information about IRFOL:

The International Research Foundation for Open Learning (IRFOL), which was set up in 1995, has now ceased to trade as a separate organisation and its website is no longer available. It was closed in March 2011.

IRFOL was an independent research agency that studied world-wide changes to open and distance learning. It was connected to the Institute of Community Studies, an English charity concerned with social research and policy.

In the 15 years of its existence IRFOL established an excellent track record and reputation for independent policy-oriented research on open and distance learning, and the application of information and communication technologies to education. Its work focussed mainly on higher education, basic education and the education and training of teachers in both industrialised and developing countries.

IRFOL carried out work for the World Bank, the European Commission, UNESCO, the Commonwealth of Learning, the British Department for International Development and the (then) Department for Education and Employment, among others.

Although IRFOL as an organisation is still registered as a charity it is no longer able itself to accept invitations to undertake research.

However, several of its previous key staff members are still working as individuals and in teams and are undertaking research and consultancy in a variety of different countries.

Those continuing to be active include:

• Dr. Ros Morpeth
• Dr. Hilary Perraton
• Dr. Roger Mills
• Dr. Charlotte Creed

Any communications regarding IRFOL should be addressed by email to Dr. Roger Mills, the immediate past Chair of its Trustees, at arm50@cam.ac.uk

March 2011