Development of a distance education network in the OECS: Feasibility study. Filling a gap in a way that makes sense

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the feasibility of a distance education network in the Eastern Caribbean. Two type of consultations were completed: a brief site survey of four Eastern Caribbean states (Grenada, Dominica, Antigua, and St. Lucia), and a workshop in St. Lucia to which education officials from government agencies and higher education institutions were invited. Through these sessions, information was gathered on the experience and resources of colleges of further education in distance education; the distance education technologies used by the colleges and their associated costs; the educational needs that such a network might address; and the financial opportunities and constraints for such a project. It was found that there is strong interest in distance education among tertiary institutions in the Eastern Caribbean. Television stations exist as a means of providing distance education, but educational needs and the availability of other resources have not yet been established. Technical issues emerged with regard to the operation of a television network, and further research is needed to take advantage of opportunities. Finally, the study found that information sharing needs are acute at several levels, and that action, not more studies, is wanted. It is recommended that action steps should be taken to implement the recommendations made in the workshop, and that surveys should be made of needs, materials, technical feasibility, and an information clearinghouse