Studies in Distance Education (Hardcover)

Description

“Studies in Distance Education” by Jagannath Mohanty is a comprehensive and insightful book that delves into the multifaceted field of distance education. Mohanty, a renowned scholar in the field, provides a detailed exploration of the theories, practices, and challenges associated with distance education. The book offers a rich blend of theoretical frameworks, empirical research, and practical examples, making it a valuable resource for educators, policymakers, researchers, and distance learners alike. In this book review, we will examine the key aspects of “Studies in Distance Education,” including its summary, analysis, comparison to other works, interpretation and themes, characterization, the author’s background, writing style, feedback from readers, pros, and ultimately, our verdict on the book.

In “Studies in Distance Education,” Mohanty offers a comprehensive overview of distance education, exploring its historical development, theoretical underpinnings, pedagogical approaches, and technological advancements. The book begins by tracing the evolution of distance education from its early correspondence course origins to the modern digital era. It then delves into the theoretical foundations of distance education, discussing key concepts such as transactional distance theory, social presence theory, and community of inquiry framework.

Mohanty provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by distance education institutions, discussing issues such as learner support, assessment and accreditation, quality assurance, and learner engagement. He also explores the use of technology in distance education, highlighting its transformative potential and discussing the effective integration of multimedia, learning management systems, and online collaboration tools.

“Studies in Distance Education” offers a rigorous analysis of the field, presenting a balanced view of its strengths and limitations. Mohanty critically examines the various pedagogical approaches used in distance education, such as independent learning, collaborative learning, and blended learning, highlighting their advantages and challenges. He also addresses the issue of equity in distance education, discussing the digital divide, cultural diversity, and inclusivity.

The book’s strengths lie in its comprehensive coverage of key topics, supported by extensive research and scholarly references. Mohanty’s writing style is clear and accessible, making complex concepts understandable to a wide range of readers. The inclusion of practical examples and case studies further enhances the book’s value, providing real-world insights into the implementation of distance education programs.

In comparison to other books on distance education, “Studies in Distance Education” stands out for its comprehensive scope and in-depth analysis. While some books focus solely on the technological aspects of distance education or instructional design, Mohanty also considers the social, cultural, and pedagogical dimensions. This holistic approach provides readers with a more nuanced understanding of the field.

Moreover, the book is distinguished by its global outlook, encompassing perspectives from different regions and contexts. Mohanty draws on examples from diverse educational systems, highlighting the similarities and differences in distance education practices around the world. This comparative lens adds depth and richness to the book, allowing readers to gain insights from various cultural and institutional perspectives.

“Studies in Distance Education” explores several overarching themes that are central to the field. One prominent theme is the role of technology in shaping distance education. Mohanty emphasizes that technology should be viewed as an enabler rather than the driving force behind distance education, highlighting the need for thoughtful pedagogical design and effective use of digital tools.

Another theme that emerges is the importance of learner support in distance education. Mohanty highlights the challenges faced by learners in distance learning environments and discusses strategies for fostering a sense of community, providing personalized support, and ensuring student success. The book also examines the role of assessment and accreditation in distance education, exploring innovative approaches to evaluating learning outcomes in online settings.

As a scholarly work, “Studies in Distance Education” does not focus on individual characters or personal narratives. Instead, the book centres on the collective experiences of distance education institutions, educators, and learners. Mohanty draws on examples and case studies to illustrate key concepts, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the diverse actors involved in distance education.

About the Author:

Jagannath Mohanty, the author of “Studies in Distance Education,” is a highly respected scholar in the field of distance education. He has extensive experience in teaching, research, and administration, and has made significant contributions to the advancement of distance education globally. Mohanty’s expertise lies in the areas of instructional design, online learning, and educational technology. He has published numerous articles and books, and his work has been widely cited by scholars in the field.

Mohanty’s writing style in “Studies in Distance Education” is clear, concise, and accessible. He effectively communicates complex ideas using straightforward language, making the book suitable for both academic and non-academic readers. The book is well-structured, with each chapter building upon the previous ones, providing a logical flow of information. Mohanty supports his arguments with evidence from research studies and includes relevant citations, making it easy for readers to explore the topics further.

What People Say About This Book:

“Studies in Distance Education” has received widespread acclaim from educators, researchers, and practitioners in the field. Many readers appreciate the book’s comprehensive coverage, noting that it is a valuable reference for novice and experienced distance education professionals. The practical examples and case studies are particularly praised for their real-world relevance and applicability. Readers also commend Mohanty’s balanced approach, highlighting his ability to address the challenges and opportunities of distance education without overly favouring one perspective.

• Comprehensive coverage of key topics in distance education
• Well-researched and supported by scholarly references
• Clear and accessible writing style
• Inclusion of practical examples and case studies
• Global perspective, considering different cultural and institutional contexts