You will be prompted and encouraged if you are getting behind. You will have the support and encouragement derived from working with others. An essential difference is between the concept of the active teacher and passive learner , in the conventional system, as opposed to the active learner with a high measure of self-direction, in the open learning system. Another important feature of the open learning system is that it makes learning available to all without the restrictions imposed by distance from the tutor. Open learning systems employ distance as a positive element in the development of independence in learning.
All teachers are aware that successful learning requires positive effort on the part of the learner.
Open learning systems emphasise this positive approach by the learner. Flexible learning systems attempt to maximise the advantages of both conventional and open learning systems by offering the learner the opportunity to choose a greater or lesser degree of personal support from a tutor or study centre, dependent upon their own needs and learning style. In the European context, flexible learning offers opportunities to share in programmes developed by partnerships of institutions throughout Europe. Even more important, perhaps, this programme enables teachers from 18 different countries to develop their skills and understanding through sharing their widely different experiences in a truly trans-national way.