The value Internet technology brings to distance education lies not in direct translation from other media but in transformation of support mechanisms to exploit its potential range. For two years, members of the Computing Department have been developing a learning environment to support the whole instruction process, encompassing students, tutors, staff support, and administration. Considerable data, both qualitative and quantitative, has been collected to support well-founded comparisons of conventional and electronic delivery. Taking care over the integration of the electronic tools into the existing administrative infrastructure paid off.
Administration is faster and more efficient with electronic assignments.
Supported Internet presentation is not a cheap option, but it may be one that can provide greater flexibility and can shift effort from administrative details to teaching.