A Regional Scheme for Distance Education in Asia.

Overview & Synopsis

The possibility of using the distance mode of education in Asia is considered. There are many national systems of education in Asia, though many of them derive from British or American models. Language of instruction presents a problem for international access, and in some countries the various levels of education may use different languages. Some international languages such as Chinese and English may assist educational mobility between countries. Potential use of the distance mode as a solution to various international problems is discussed in relation to vocational, general, and continuing education. Suggestions for facilitating a regional scheme of cooperation within Asia are offered that deal with matters of organization, accreditation and validation, finance, and language. Possible models include transfer of credits, joint awards, and cooperative specialized production of subject packages. It is suggested that an international body such as the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) would be the appropriate organizer of a regional scheme on behalf of Asian nations. It is noted that any scheme will have to consider six points: production of packaged learning resources, copyright and translation of packages, feedback between tutor and student, accreditation and validation, transfer of credits, and joint awards. It is suggested that distance education is a valid method of learning, and cooperation should ensure that the best learning facilities in Asia are available to each student. Most objections will likely be due to difficulties in the administration of cooperative schemes, and considerable planning would have to precede the operation of a regional cooperative scheme for distance education. (Author/SW)