Distance education: a glance in the past-present-future

Introduction

The present study aims to shed light on the main economic and social realignments that took place in Greece during the decade 1970-1980, as well as on the technological and scientific developments and their effects in the Greek manner of life and work (Botomore, 19842). It is well known that progress in information technology hardware and the spread of the Internet have opened a variety of new ways for many educational and industrial fields (Okamoto, Cristea, Kayama, 20013). The industrial revolution of the 19th century brought up several changes in the social and educational structures of all under-evolutioned countries and Greece was not an exception. The population of the cities augmented in dramatic paces, leaving behind a small amount of workers and farmers in provincial cities and villages. Along with the rapid industrialization of Greece, woman’s emancipation should not be disregarded, where as more and more women become active members of the working class (Tsaousi, 19874; Avgerinos, 19841). This new era of changes claimed from all working classes constant specialization and knowledge acquisition in order for the latter to keep up with the social and labouring needs, which could only be achieved through distance education learning environments.

Methods

This paper is based upon various scientific reviews and historical references concerning the financial, educational, social, industrial and technological status of Greece from 1970 up until now.

Results

The primary purpose of every university unit is to provide in every student the indispensable amount of knowledge, which in accordance to the latter’s qualifications will lead to the birth of creative beings. Whatsoever a distance education program addresses to a larger amount of students of any age (in comparison to the existent university system) requiring only virtual presence.

Discussion / Conclusions

Despite the barriers and the various obstacles during the creation of distance-learning environments, remains undoubted the fact of the prevalence of distance education in today’s societies. Distance education is here to stay, as it appeals to the new trends of economy, using all kinds of technology in order to promote every form of knowledge.

References

[1]. Avgerinos, T. (1984). Genetive Sociology. Athens, Greece, Salto.
[2]. Botomore, Τ., Β. (1984). The History of Society. Athens, Greece, Gutenberg.
[3]. Okamoto, T., Cristea, A. & Kayama, M. (2001). Journal of Computer Assisted learning, 17, 4-12.
[4]. Tsaousi, D., G. (1987). Sociology Elements. Athens, Greece, Gutenberg.