The international centre for distance learning run by the Open University is to be phased out due to a dearth in funding. http://www-icdl.open.ac.uk/ "The OU’s International Centre for Distance Learning (ICDL) ceases most of its activities from 1st April 2003 as its external funding has come to an end. Its database of distance-learning courses and institutions remains online but ‘frozen in time’ as it will no longer be updated and will be phased out in due course." Open University Roy Maybery
This would be a sad loss. What a great opportunity for a 'white knight' to ride in and either bail it out or take it over? Could DegreeInfo.com do such a thing, I wonder?
As I see it all that would be needed is for the distance ed data base to be continued and kept up to date. As for the rest of it Degree Info already does the job Roy Maybery
Perhaps an opportunity unlike any other currently in professional distance learning. Since they're willing to drop, my guess would be that they might be interested in some type of arrangement that would/could benefit both parties. Tom Nixon
Projects ICDL is actively engaged in internal, national and international research and development projects. We are interested in capturing and sharing experience and knowledge in the field of open and distance education and in the application of new technology for learning. ICDL is looking for opportunities to work with other agencies and institutions in information collection, scholarly activities and research, as well as with commercial partners to add value and develop services for specific target groups. We wish to extend our network of information providers and partners around the world. Please contact the Director of ICDL to discuss any ideas for possible cooperation. The above is from the ICDL site Roy Maybery
A similar catastrophe has befallen Telecampus. From their website: Note that the TeleCampus site is no longer actively maintained; however, it is available as an archive. We are unable to ensure the accuracy of the information and data on this site and bear no responsibility for its contents. Note that the message board will no longer be active and inquiries will not be answered.
