Customer Reviews

Distance Education: A Systems View

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(2)
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Perhaps this book was written for policy-makers. It's not very specific about curriculum design nor technology, if that's what you are looking for. It does a pretty job of citing other research and case-studies of implementation. It also seems to state a lot of "basics": like "The study guide should do more than merely present subject matter. It should contain directions and guidance for the students..." (page 79). This doesn't seem very insightful nor specific to distance education.

This book is no longer timely. It was published/copyrighted in 2005. The information that it contains is no longer applicable to modern distance/virtual learning. The author downplays audio and video streaming related to distance learning because in 2005 it was not as prevalent. Futhermore, it does not take into account the trend of ALL colleges and universities moving in this direction.

The systems view information regarding course design is good - but everything else is outdated.

I recommend you find another book that is more timely.

Second Edition (2005). Fantastic book. Very well written, loaded with useful info. On a par with Simonson's Teaching and Learning at a Distance (maybe better). Highly recommend.

"Distance Education: A Systems View" is a wonderful book for novices and seasoned professionals. It offers a board and deep foundation for the design, development, and delivery of distance education programs. There is a balance between conceptual and theoretical information, and a wealth of practical advice. It is written in easy to understand language, presents interesting case studies, and provides a solid bibliography

The book by Moore and Kearsley, 2005. Distance Education-A systems view gives in-depth knowledge on distance education and developments in the field. This book is valuable for education institutions who wish to embark on distance education.

For students studying education and the practise of distance education, this book explains teaching at a distance in detail. Technology and media in distance education such as print, audio and video, radio and television, teleconferencing,computer-based learning and media and technology selection and or integration are describe with references to transformation into unimagined technology application in learning.

Distance education and instructional design are explained in detail. The challenges for higher education are referred to and the transformation needed to position themselves is evident in this book. The authors gave benchmarks for success throughout the book which is helpful in the planning and maintaining of vibrant distance education initiatives.

References to support material and web based links make this book a definite must on every distance educator's desk.