"This volume will appeal to a wide array of readers, from novices to those already working in the field. Recommended for all collections."
--CHOICE

"Reference literature has been hard put to keep pace with its (distance learning) changes so the appearance of an Encyclopedia is most welcome. Recommended for academic and public libraries."
--LIBRARY JOURNAL

In today′s fast-paced world, with multiple demands on time and resources as well as pressures for career advancement and productivity, self-directed learning is an increasingly popular and practical alternative in continuing education.

The Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning defines and applies the best practices of contemporary continuing education designed for adults in corporate settings, Open University settings, graduate coursework, and in similar learning environments.

Written for a wide audience in the distance and continuing education field, the Encyclopedia is a valuable resource for deans and administrators at universities and colleges, reference librarians in academic and public institutions, HR officials involved with continuing education/training programs in corporate settings, and those involved in the academic disciplines of Education, Psychology, Information Technology, and Library Science.

Sponsored by The Fielding Graduate Institute, this extensive reference work is edited by long-time institute members, bringing with them the philosophy and authoritative background of this premier institution. The Fielding Graduate Institute is well known for offering mid-career professionals opportunities for self-directed, mentored study with the flexibility of time and location that enables students to maintain commitments to family, work, and community.

The Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning includes over 275 entries, each written by a specialist in that area, giving the reader comprehensive coverage of all aspects of distributed learning, including use of group processes, self-assessment, the life line experience, and developing a learning contract.

Topics Covered

Administrative Processes

Policy, Finance and Governance

Social and Cultural Perspectives

Student and Faculty Issues

Teaching and Learning Processes and Technologies

Technical Tools and Supports

Key Features

* A-to-Z organization plus Reader′s Guide groups entries by broad topic areas

* Over 275 entries, each written by a specialist in that area

* Comprehensive index and cross-references between entries add to the encyclopedia′s ease of use

* Annotated listings for additional resources, including distance learning programs, print and non-print resources, and conferences

Advisory Board

Tony Bates

University of British Columbia

Gregory S. Blimling

Appalachian State University

Ellie Chambers

The Open University, U.K.

Paul Duguid

University of California, Berkeley

Kenneth C. Green

The Campus Computing Project

Linda Harasim

Simon Fraser University

Sally Johnstone

WCET

Sara Kiesler

Carnegie Mellon University

William Maehl

Fielding Graduate Institute

Michael G. Moore

Pennsylvania State University

Jeremy Shapiro

Fielding Graduate Institute

Ralph A. Wolff

Executive Director, Western Association of Schools and Colleges