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Overcoming Geographical Barriers

Open and distance learning (ODL) are key instruments for enhancing access and inclusion.

Programme Delivered by the Commonwealth of Learning

Open Distance LearningMinisters at 15CCEM noted the importance of open and distance learning (ODL) as a key instrument for enhancing access and inclusion, and mandated the Commonwealth of Learning (COL) with the responsibility for carrying forward this 15CCEM Action Area. Much more investment in the development of skills and infrastructures is needed to ensure the delivery of ODL to populations across the Commonwealth who are impeded by a range of geographical barriers. Effective ODL will facilitate the sharing of knowledge and best practice throughout Commonwealth member States to the benefit of all.

The Commonwealth is endowed with a rich diversity of member States across the globe. Small States and those comprised of remote island provinces and mountainous terrain can make the effective delivery of quality education difficult. This is particularly evident in the Pacific and Caribbean Commonwealth . Other geographical obstacles include the continued nomadic lifestyle of some groups within the Commonwealth, as is the case in some parts of Southern Africa . Geographically remote areas across the Commonwealth are particularly prone to poor infrastructure, with a shortage of electricity, water, school buildings and other learning resources. There is also more likely to be an absence of fully trained teaching staff that are prepared to remain amongst the conditions of such communities.

ODL aims to overcome these barriers by the provision of multi-delivery mechanisms in distance education, including enhanced ICT capabilities, building physical infrastructure in remote locations, and providing adaptable learning resources for nomadic groups that allows mobile access to education. Providing open and distance learning mechanisms for human resource training is also essential, and COL have prioritised teacher training through ODL in response to the education MDGs, with the intention of assisting countries to deal with the problems caused by teacher shortages in the current efforts to achieve UPE.

Click here to access the Knowledge Finder

Using open and distance learning to overcome barriers, Workshop Report