A new distance education model for the University of the West Indies: a learning objects´ approach

The University of the West Indies (UWI) presently employs a dual-mode distance education model, where distance education is conducted using mostly print media and audio conferencing. Though the university is equipped with a scalable network infrastructure, it has taken little initiative to tap into new computing technology to expand its distance education programs to many areas in the region. We propose a new multi-mode distance education model for UWI, incorporating distributed computer technology to support its distance education initiatives, similar to other regional universities. The core feature of our model is the use of learning object repositories containing learning content that can be easily reused or re-purposed by instructors, accessed by students, and shared among institutions.