Distance Education in the Faculty of Education.

Overview & Synopsis

This report describes the development of a distance education, professional development program for teacher education which promotes two-way communication between tutor and student through use of the telephone, electronic mail, and facsimile transmission (FAX). It is reported that in 1986, McGill University in Montreal began by offering education courses to five teachers in remote areas, with enrollment expanding to 320 by 1991. Educational computing and media courses were adapted for distance education, representing the department's first major venture in developing specific instructional materials for distance learners. Additionally, the geographical area served grew to include all of Quebec, the Northwest Territories, the Yukon, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and parts of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is noted that, although the relationship between teacher and student in distance education seems to imply a form of learning that is remote, impersonal, and indifferent, students of the McGill program praise the courses for their "human" atmosphere and the "warm" interaction they allow. It is concluded that the McGill University program is a success, and will continue to establish more substantial programs in continuing education for professionals. It is also expected that future research will find immediate application in establishing new guidelines for tutor training. (13 references) (DB)