A workable e-learning strategy for distance education in South Africa

E-learning is not yet happening on a large scale in distance education in South Africa. Attempts at e-learning are sporadic and the result of individual rather than institutional efforts. This is partially caused by systemic and institutional constraints, as well as limitations faced by individuals and departments in distance education institutions. In the absence of an institutional strategy to implement e-learning, it is up to individuals and academic departments to put it into action. In this paper, attention is given to how the e-learning strategy of the Department of Economics at the University of South Africa is shaped by an interplay of factors, such as the Department´s formal tuition model, the experience with and results of a pilot project, as well as accessibility issues.