Ζητήματα συγκρότησης της εξ αποστάσεως εκπαίδευσης ως γνωστικού πεδίου: Επισκόπηση των επιστημονικών περιοδικών

Abstract

This paper focuses on a selection of international printed and electronic ODL-related journals that cover the domains of distance learning, e-learning and educational technology in order to point out certain problematic areas in the disciplinary constitution of Open and Distance Learning today. Attempting an application of discourse analysis and content analysis on the journals’ scope, structure and content, the paper presents a critical discussion of four main issues: a) The formation of hegemonic and peripheral educational cultures, which reflect different educational needs and agendas; b) the issue of access to education, especially concentrating on social exclusion and the developing world; c) the concept of educational technology and its ambiguous uses, with reference to learning needs and pedagogical practices; and d) the epistemological and scientific identity of Open and Distance Learning and the necessity for careful theoretical and methodological reflection on its founding principles. Acknowledging that the future character of education is being shaped by contemporary strategic decisions, the present inspection seeks to demonstrate the analytic value of the study of ODL-related academic journals and its contribution to the field’s reflective awareness.