This book contains 16 papers on learner support in distance education in an international context. The following papers are included: "Constructivism or Confucianism? We Have the Technology, Now What Shall We Do With It?" (Louise Aylward); "Exploring Informal Study Groups in a South African Teacher Education Programme" (Carol Bertram); "Supporting the Masses? Learner Perceptions of a South African ODL (open and distance learning) Programme" (Norma Corry, Tony Lelliot); "Addressing the Learning Skills Needs of Students at a Distance: A Dual Medium Approach" (Margaret Johnson, Clive Barrett); "Supporting the Student in New Teaching and Learning Environments" (Brian Kenworthy); "The Importance of the Tutor in Open and Distance Learning" (Helen Lentell); "Remembering Our Common Work: Institutional Support for Open Learning" (Alan Mandell, Lee Herman); "On-line Learning and Supporting Students: New Possibilities" (Robin Mason); "The Centrality of Learner Support in Open and Distance Learning: A Paradigm Shift in Thinking" (Roger Mills); "Distance Higher Education and Library Services in Japan" (Chieko Mizoue); "Changing Entrenched Learner Support Systems: Vision and Reality" (Evelyn Pulane Nonyongo); "Lost and Found: Open Learning Outside the Doors of Academe" (Jennifer O'Rourke); "Challenges in Adjusting to New Technology in Supporting Learners in Developing Countries" (Jason Pennells); "Delivering Learner Support On-line: Does the Medium Affect the Message?" (Marion Phillips); "Rethinking Learner Support in the Open University UK; A Case Study" (Alan Tait); and"Collaborative On-line Learning: Transforming Learner Support and Course Design" (Mary Thorpe). All papers include substantial bibliographies. (MN)