DOWNLOD CONFERENCE PROCEEDINGS: Forging new pathways of research and innovation in open and distance learning Reaching from the roots

Distance education is the fastest-growing mode of both formal and informal teaching, training, and learning. It is multi-faceted in nature, encompassing e-learning and mobile learning, as well as immersive learning environments.

Research questions should be posed within a theoretical framework and, most commonly, quality research is embedded within a holistic structure of research areas within a discipline. Furthermore, the structure, culture, history, and past accomplishments of a research discipline form the foundation for identifying gaps and priority areas for researchers.

Over the last decade, e-learning and distance education has developed rapidly in the higher education sector. Today, there is almost no higher education institution that does not utilize e-learning in blended learning programs or at least in addition to on-campus lectures and labs.