EEL421 Globalisation, Development and Open & Distance Learning (4)

The evolution of networked computing and communications technologies has created new possibilities for flexible open and distance learning. However, online environments are subject to the influences of government, private corporations and societies in which they are used. These influences impact on the effectiveness of online education providers and the potential of online learning to support open and flexible learning.

This subject examines the impact of globalisation on the evolving story of open and distance learning. The subject materials engage learners with international perspectives on open and distance learning, particularly in developing countries. Activity in this subject is built around authentic case studies in which learners explore the issues associated with open and distance learning in the context of further education and training, higher education, internationalization, mobile learning, MOOCs, partnerships, and non-formal education networks.

Subject Outlines
Current CSU students can view Subject Outlines for recent sessions. Please note that Subject Outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

Session 3 (90)
Online
Albury-Wodonga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: EEL421. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Education

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to recognise that 'globalisation' and 'development' are both contested concepts and be conversant with their meanings and uses;
  • be able to understand open and distance learning in their historical, political and socio-economic contexts;
  • be able to have a clear understanding of why and how ODL is used in both the developed and developing worlds; and
  • be able to understand, and be able to critique, the potential for ODL to level the international playing field in terms of access to education (ensuring equal access is Target 4.3 of the draft UN Sustainable Development Goals - successors to the MDGs).

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • 1. What is ODL and what is it for?
  • 2. The roots of the digital divide: obstacles to access; its political and economic foundations and consequences.
  • 3. Case studies of change and disruption: the impacts of ODL in developing- and developed-world contexts. (To include the impacts of technology: eg, unbundling education provision from qualifications and the emergence of alternative provision pathways with relevance for a greater diversity of students in more parts of the world.)

Special Resources

Systems & processes for finding, approving placements, mentor and supervisors.   This may fit within the work of the Faculty Professional Experience Unit, or may not  as these graduate students are working in further education, higher education or the broader training sector.

Contact

Current Students

For any enquiries about subject selection or course structure please contact Student Central or ask@csu.edu.au or phone on 1800 275 278.

Prospective Students

For further information about Charles Sturt University, or this course offering, please contact info.csu on 1800 275 278 (free call within Australia) or enquire online.

The information contained in the 2018 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: August 2018. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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