Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning [Hardcover]

Anna M. DiStefano (Editor), Kjell Erik Rudestam (Editor), Robert J. Silverman (Editor)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0761924515 | ISBN-13: 978-0761924517 | Publication Date: November 6, 2003 | Edition: 1

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.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Despite the fact that education is an area that has no lack of reference resources, there is surprisingly little available on the "hot" topic of distance learning. Even Macmillan's Encyclopedia of Education (2002) has only a four-page article and assorted short references to cover something that is touted to be in all our futures. Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning should therefore be a very welcome addition to nearly every reference collection, and for the most part, it performs the function that collection development librarians would want from it. The title phrase distributed learning usually refers only to electronic distance learning, but this volume seems to cover all aspects, electronic or not.

This is a volume that adheres to high production standards. The editors have respectable academic credentials and are affiliated with the Fielding Graduate Institute, an academic entity whose presence is largely "distant." The list of contributors includes faculty from both virtual and "brick and mortar" institutions. All entries are listed at the beginning of the book, a reader's guide section groups headings thematically to assist the researcher, and an appendix provides an annotated list of programs that offer distance degrees.

The body of the volume has an A-Z arrangement, with most of the 174 entries being several pages long. They are signed and include cross-references and a bibliography. The topics covered include Assessment of prior learning, Cultural diversity, Ethics, Library services, and Team teaching. Much of the content covers the technology of distributed learning and therefore is likely to become dated quickly. However, since topics such as Learning platforms and Meta-communication are not easily found elsewhere, what this encyclopedia adds to the literature, along with its relatively modest price, will make it worth the risk of becoming outdated. Recommended for large public and academic libraries. RBB
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Review

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 )

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

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Product Details

• Hardcover: 576 pages
• Publisher: SAGE Publications; 1 edition (November 6, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0761924515
• ISBN-13: 978-0761924517
• Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 x 1.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,599,944 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)