Aboud de Andrade

Distance learning is a developing area, a relatively new field that has been gaining ground in scientific discussions, with more and more empirical studies being conducted on the subject. However, there is still little data available to draw any conclusive statements, and there are diverse, but not necessarily divergent, conceptions about its methodology. In Brazil, many of these studies relate to corporate training or specific communication and interaction technologies, which is reflected in the assessment tools developed. The promise of distance learning to democratise knowledge, enabling people far from major centres to access quality higher education, culminated in the creation of the Open University of Brazil and its pilot distance learning course in administration. However, the data presented on the pilot project has not been encouraging, especially in relation to students and course management. Therefore, throughout the book, we will understand a little more about the dynamics of this course.