INTERNATIONAL CO‐OPERATION IN DISTANCE HIGHER EDUCATION

There is a predominant opinion that distance education, especially that one on higher education level, has to rely on application of educational technology. On the other hand prospective developments in educational and communications technology may bring the distinction between distance and “non‐distance” education into question. But, there is no doubt that the further development of this form of higher education demands broader co‐operation than at present, especially at international level. In this context, the following article, which was written for “Higher Education in Europe” by Dr. Sam B. Crooks, from the Open University, analyses different aspects of international cooperation in distance education with special reference to the work and outcome of the International Conference on Education of Adults at a Distance. The conference, hosted by the Open University in celebration of its tenth anniversary, was held in Birmingham, England from 18 to 23 November 1979. It was attended by over 200 participants from 51 countries.     

MEDIA STUDIES AND VOCATIONALISM

University arts faculties have traditionally been reluctant to admit a vocational component into arts courses. The author's experience in teaching media at the New South Wales Institute of Technology suggests that the fears underlying this reluctance, while not completely irrational, arise from problems between academics and professionals who cannot work well together: they can be overcome if those involved behave with tact and flexibility. The approach to media studies in Australia is described.     

Theology in Australian higher education: the ‘Newcastle Model’ brings theology home to the academy

This article investigates the movement of theological education away from diocesan controlled theological colleges in the Anglican Church of Australia into the mainstream curriculum of public universities. Particular reference is made to the establishment of Theology as an area of study at The University of Newcastle. Other models of theological education based on particular hermeneutic interests of Anglicanism are examined. Comparisons are drawn between those institutions seeking to maintain partisan control over theological education and those who cede control, in part or entirely, to the public university. Discussion of some historical material leading to the implementation of the ‘Newcastle Model’ is presented as this relates to church and public policy on Theology in higher education. The article argues that the place of theological education is in the academy or public university since it is there that Theology, like other public knowledge, best develops and maintains a critical intention.     

ACADEMIC FREEDOM IN EUROPE: REVIEWING UNESCO'S RECOMMENDATION

ABSTRACT:  This paper examines the compliance of universities in the European Union with the UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Higher–Education Teaching Personnel, which deals primarily with protection for academic freedom. The paper briefly surveys the European genesis of the modern research university and academic freedom, before evaluating compliance with the UNESCO recommendation on institutional autonomy, academic freedom, university governance and tenure. Following from this, the paper examines the reasons for the generally low level of compliance with the UNESCO Recommendation within the EU states, and considers how such compliance could be improved .