3. Open Learning in Further Education

The open‐learning student has far more responsibility for setting the learning agenda than in traditional systems. Guidance is needed to help confirm the choice of course and explain particular difficulties associated with open learning. Tasks of the tutor include defining aims and learning objectives; organising learning material; presenting this material and assessing and providing feedback on achievement. The emphasis within this mix of activities changes in open learning, with more time on counselling and providing a mark and comment service. Ready availability of individualised learning materials is critical to the development of open learning. Lack of resources has been one reason why open learning has not been more widely adopted. The more effective the investment in materials development, the less likely the requirement for high levels of tutorial support. Development costs of learning materials and calculation of the cost of delivery systems are discussed.