Encyclopedia of Distributed Learning (Hardcover)

by et al Anna DiStefano (Editor) (Author)

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encyclopedia adds to the literature, along with its relatively modest price, will make it worth the risk of becoming outdated.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)
• Average Customer Review: No customer reviews yet. Be the first.
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,770,175 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)