ICT-based Learning Networks and Communities of Practice(<Special Issue>Technology-based Learning Networks and Communities of Practice)

The following paper discusses information and communications technology-based learning networks and communities of practice and how these are serving groups and individuals in developed and developing countries. It suggests that \u27information age\u27 organizations are service rather than product oriented, often use temporary configurations and linkages, and are typically organized around networks, teams and processes rather than traditional management and organizational structures. It illustrates how Web-based networks are used to link learners, trainees and professionals nationally and internationally, and how telecentres bring technology, learning and information to remote and disadvantaged communities. It concludes by addressing the issues of technology, cost, evaluation, effectiveness and efficiency in such devel- opments

Quality Matters for Turkish Higher Education

Abstract The paper examines global developments in quality assurance (QA) in higher education and the imperatives that are driving these. It argues that universities need to respond to the growing calls for accountability, national and international competition in higher education, availability of quality open courseware and expectations that graduates should demonstrate the generic attributes required for the twenty-first century. The paper discusses how quality should be monitored and measured. It posits that quality can never be taken for granted, but has to be continually worked for. It also suggests that innovators in on-and off-campus pedagogy and e-learning need to evidence that they can achieve better outcomes than the more time-honoured approaches. At a time when Turkish universities are becoming increasingly engaged in QA and there is an ongoing debate on the governance issue, the paper is designed to raise issues for further consideration by managers and academics

2.2 Leadership issues in open and distance learning(Issues on Cross-Cultural Distance Education : Collaborative Research Outcomes and Open Workshops)

This paper discusses developments in open and distance education in Australian and Japanese universities. It argues that these call for transformational leadership and outlines the steps that leaders need to take in encouraging and supporting change