Supporting Open and Distance Learners with Computer Conferencing: Potential Benefits and Barriers

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to outline the issues surrounding online support for open and distance learners in a dual-mode department. In recent years with the acceptance of learning as a lifelong process, many UK universities have broadened their remit to embrace a larger and more diverse learner population. This cultural change in education policy has corresponded with rapid developments in educational technology. The Open Learning Unit (OLU), University of Wales, Aberystwyth, was established in 1993 specifically to develop open and distance learning degree schemes. It is directed by an educational philosophy of learner-centred, open and flexible learning. Central to this work is the implementation and maintenance of a learner support system, which includes the use of computer conferencing. Using over 600 distance learners from a Department of Information Studies as a case study, this paper aims to outline the issue of support for open and distance learners, describe the benefits and barriers of computer conferencing as a support medium, and consider the potential of social cognition research to investigate lurking behaviour in online teaching and learning environments.