If local agents are involved they will need to be trained. A Charter designed specifically for distance learning students is required, to be applied alongside the University Charter. A document reference file for distance learning students is also required. Much of this information will be covered in a Charter, Student Guide and Schedules of Work. It may be useful to set up a control group of students who can be contacted soon after the course has started, and at various points throughout the programme, to gauge initial reactions to the course materials, difficulties, etc.
Distance learning students require regular, comprehensive feedback.
Monitoring information can be used, including student records. Telephone interviews using a control group will tell you quickly if something is going wrong. Data gathered can be used in further research.