In a 1-year certification course in which independent study alternated with classroom teaching, 722 students were surveyed regarding their attitudes toward self-study readiness, help in solving study problems, and significance of study in their lives. Social networks were important unofficial sources of help. Attitudes toward study differed from…

Analyzes prior knowledge based on the idea of knowledge structure; the relevance of using knowledge profiles is important in independent, distance learning. Suggests that prior knowledge can be helpful to enhance a student's learning process, to design more flexible learning environments, and to provide institutional support. (Author/AEF)

Discusses differences in methods that are needed to effectively teach online courses as opposed to traditional classes. Considers the needs of online learners and suggests that andragogy, based on self-directed learning theory for adult learners, is more appropriate for distance education and nontraditional learners rather than traditional…

Distance learners are self-directed learners traditionally taught via study books, collections of readings, and exercises to test understanding of learning packages. Despite advances in e-Learning environments and computer-based teaching interfaces, distance learners still lack opportunities to participate in exercises and debates available to…

Independent study professionals have grown out of a largely clerical environment and are sometimes not part of upper hierarchies. Though mid-level within distance learning administration, their educational and technical competencies afford a certain power over curriculum content and format, also suggesting an important place in establishing…

This final report includes 80 institutions' final responses to the National University Continuing Education Association (NUCEA) Independent Study Division's annual survey of college, high school, and noncredit program practices during 1989-90. Eight figures are included to provide information on course enrollments, course fees, staff size, course…

Although the basic objective of providing some local support services for Britain's Open University students has been met, some feel that the services are not operating optimally, and there is no direct evidence that the services achieve their stated goals, including reducing attrition, enhancing achievement and satisfaction, and giving academic…

A project explored the Internet's potential to teach instrumental music online to students in regional or remote regions of Western Australia. The project was established on the expectation that, at some time in the not-too-distant future, instrumental music tutors located in metropolitan regions may have, in their normal studio practice, a…

Provides an overview of the PROLIB and EDULIB projects, which involved the development and delivery of distance learning courses in the Slovak language to library and information professionals in the Slovak Republic. Explains the combination of face-to-face lecture sessions, group discussions, self-study workbooks, and computer-mediated Internet…

Describes the development, purpose, and content of an independent-study course developed by academic librarians from ten colleges and universities in Utah and taught via the World Wide Web. "Internet Navigator" emphasizes information literacy rather than Internet mechanics. Discusses student and faculty responses, collaboration, and…

Reports on a project that traced the moment-by-moment thought processes of 17 tertiary students enrolled in undergraduate distance education programs as they interacted with textual materials in private study settings. Data are presented on selected mediating processes, including evaluation, linking, strategy planning, generating, metacognition,…

This paper offers suggestions for providing accelerative opportunities for rural gifted students. Guidance is provided on overcoming local barriers and the chronic lack of sufficient resources in rural areas. Strategies incorporating telecommunications, cooperation with other districts and universities, faculty inservices, and community mentoring…

Discussion of independent learning and informal interaction between students and between student and tutor focuses on a survey conducted at the Open University (United Kingdom) that explored students' attitudes and behavior in scheduled contacts as well as unscheduled, informal interaction. Student desire for additional learning support is also…

This study examines the effectiveness of interactive multimedia on college student achievement and problem solving, including higher-level thinking skills. Describes the use of the Group Assessment of Logical Thinking (GALT) and discusses findings in terms of the impact on self-study in a distance-learning environment. (Author/LRW)

Investigates the notion of autonomy in relation to distance language learning, and examines the skills and strategies needed by those learning at a distance in order to achieve successful outcomes. Explores in particular the dilemma posed by the highly structured nature of open university language courses and the need for learners to develop…