An international overview of the historical developments within distance education which investigates current thinking on the topic. The author examines the different methods of distance learning and teaching in practice, discussing their societal preconditions and consequences, and their psychological implications. The book highlights the factors which will influence future practice, focusing on developments in information technology.

This unique and comprehensive overview of open and distance education is written by one of the best known names in the field. It integrates historical, contemporary and future aspects of distance education. Packed with international case studies, it goes beyond looking at the methods and technology of distance education, giving Otto Peters' renowned visions on the sociological and social impacts of distance education.
Now published in paperback for the first time, this new edition includes a new section on virtual universities. A major contribution to thinking on open and distance...