Commonwealth of Learning (2010) Samoa workshop develops VUSSC maritime training materials Connections, February Vol. 15, No. 1
The Virtual University of the Small States of the Commonwealth is one of the more interesting international distance education consortia, and seems to be gaining some traction.
Twenty-five educators from 13 countries took part in VUSSC’s seventh International Training and Materials Development Workshop, hosted by the National University of Samoa. The participants, representing maritime regulatory and training bodies in small states in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the South Pacific, were immersed in hands-on training in information and communication technology (ICT) skills, particularly those related to course materials development. Course development is now continuing online.
Maritime training, particularly transport and logistics, is the newest area of course development for VUSSC. Courses are already available in the areas of tourism, life skills, professional development for education, disaster management, fisheries and construction.
The Commonwealth of Learning provides resources and support for VUSSC.
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.
