The cost analysis of learning at a distance: Venezuela's Universidad Nacional Abierta

Abstract

This paper examines the cost structure and future system costs of the distance teaching Universidad Nacional Abierta, Venezuela, and, through comparisons with other distance teaching universities, seeks to draw some initial and general conclusions concerning the cost implications of media choice, the size of an institution's academic programme, and the number of students in the system. It also seeks to illustrate the general utility of cost analysis and projection as a service to those who are required to take decisions as to the future development of an institution.