Postgraduate Distance Education and Libraries: educational principles versus pragmatic course design

Abstract

This paper presents some findings from interviews with course providers concerning their views about the role of the library in postgraduate distance learning. These views are discussed in relation to the recent expansion of such courses and the role of libraries in academic study. Conflicting provider discourses are identified and a provisional typology of courses is presented. The paper concludes that these developments present an opportunity to examine conflicting educational concerns and argues for the importance of library use in fostering critical dialogue and research led teaching and learning.