Adverse Factors in the Development of an Open University in Latin America

Abstract

The article begins with a succinct description of the principal experiences in open and distance education in Latin America. It indicates the necessity to reorientate policies and objectives in this area and classify the investment priorities in higher education.

An analysis of processes of transfer of technology in open education follows. The author emphasizes that the concepts of ‘open’ and ‘distance’ education have not been correctly transferred to Latin America. The processes of creativity versus design of courses, production and distribution of materials for learning, academic evaluation and certification in open universities receives critical treatment in the comparison of models from developed countries with those of Latin America.

The article indicates and explains variables such as financial resources, political determinants, resistance to innovation, learning styles, student population, organization and institutional structures, human resources, and communication as possible factors which detain adequate development of the open university in Latin America.