Distance learning: short‐term gain, long‐term commitment ‐ a case study

Presents a case study illustrating practical management and quality issues which have underpinned the transition of a Master of Education course from a traditional to a distance learning format. The background and development of the course are described, including the rationale for, personal experience and some consequences of, “translating” traditional teaching into text‐based materials. A summary is given of criteria currently used to define quality within the course but concerns about maintaining quality whilst also reacting to changing external and internal constraints are highlighted. It is suggested that the short‐term gains of participating in the distance learning market are attractive, increasing participation in a course which might not otherwise be sustainable. However, participation in this market should not be regarded as a means of doing more with less. If quality is to be maintained, academic tutorial staff need to make a long‐term commitment to reflection on their own practice, and require support in this initiative from the managers of educational institutions.