Open University Worldwide (2009) New distance teaching skills course launched in China In Partnership Feb (Note: not available online)
The Open University (U.K.) and the Central China Radio and TV University (CCRTVU) have presented the first module of a new course focusing on open distance teaching skills. 31 tutors studied the six week module “Learner Support” finishing in December 2008. The course familiarised tutors with the learning materials, who will go on to teach the material to further teachers.
The online courses, presented in Chinese, offer teachers the skills associated with high quality supported open learning. The three main areas of support essential for e-learning students are explored; tutoring online, learner support and course design, together with creating a plan for addressing these requirements.
The course was written by Professor Robin Mason of The Open University’s Institute of Educational Technology.
The tutors will see the first student intake in March and it is anticipated that thousands of students throughout China will learn more about the methodology and pedagogy of high quality open distance education in the next few years.
Dr. Tony Bates is the author of eleven books in the field of online learning and distance education. He has provided consulting services specializing in training in the planning and management of online learning and distance education, working with over 40 organizations in 25 countries. Tony is a Research Associate with Contact North | Contact Nord, Ontario’s Distance Education & Training Network.
