The Role of Distance Education Instructor: Attitudes, Skills, and Strategies.

Author: De Vries, Jusri / Tella, Seppo
Published: Helsinki, 2001
Source: http://www.edu.helsinki.fi [16.12.2003].

Abstract

Seppo Tella and Jusri De Vries discuss the advantages and disadvantages of distance education. This form of teaching (and learning) requires skills and attitudes different from those needed in traditional education. Distance education does not mean relying on digital devices and means of communication. Lessons must be prepared as carefully as in any other learning environment. The advantages of distance education are obvious: learning becomes accessible to people who have hitherto been excluded and who, for the most part, are highly motivated.

De Vries, Jusri

Jusri De Vries studied at Helwan University, from where he graduated in 1977 as a bachelor of interior architecture. His post-graduate studies at Michigan State University included optical illusion and design, human behavior and environment. More recently, de Vries focused on computer animation and graphics. He has taught interior design at various American universities. In 1997 he was appointed Adjunct Professor for Distance Education and Assessment at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff.

Tella, Seppo

Seppo Tella, born in 1947, is Professor of Foreign Language Education at the University of Helsinki since 1997. Additionally, he directs the Media Education Centre and the Research Centre for Foreign Language Education. As a specialist in media education he has both led and participated in many European Union-based projects on media education, information and communication technologies and foreign language education.

Publications: "Aspects of Media Education: Strategic Imperatives in the Information Age" (ed.) 1998, "Teaching Through a Foreign Language: From Tool to Empowering Mediator" (co-ed.) 1999, "Media, Mediation, Time and Communication: Emphases in Network-Based Media Education" (ed.) 2000.