Toward an understanding of academic self‐concept in distance education

Abstract

Academic self‐concept has been demonstrated to influence student success in distance education. The purpose of this study was to examine the nature of academic self‐concept in distance education and to determine its enhancers and detractors. It was determined that this construct is dynamic and multi‐faceted: the process of both learning as an adult and learning at a distance, as well as the content studied, influences academic self‐concept. Implications for both practice and further research are discussed.     

A re‐examination of expatriate recruitment for education in developing countries

This article aims to identify and examine the key factors in effective recruitment for people to work successfully overseas. It investigates key factors such as experience of working overseas, attitude and personality which determine the success or failure of people recruited to work in education in developing countries; from personal reasons for seeking such work and the appropriate recruitment process, to the induction and how expatriates settle in to their work and life in a very different culture and working environment. The ‘culture shock’ experienced on arrival is studied to reflect on how its effects may be lessened. Three case studies illuminate specific lessons that can be learned where there is evidence of match or mismatch between expatriate and employing organization.     

Methodological quandaries in studying process and outcomes in peer assessment

Peer assessment is very various in its implementation. Six studies of peer assessment are reviewed, four of them in higher education. A literature review is followed by five empirical studies. Strengths and weaknesses of each study are considered and issues are raised. Variables in peer assessment needing further exploration are extricated – in sample definition, specification of type of peer assessment, organisational nature of the intervention, and the measures which are used to evaluate change. It is suggested that further experimental and quasi-experimental studies are necessary to contrast one or two of these variables at a time.