Published in association with the Commonwealth of LearningOpen and distance learning has expanded dramatically in recent years across the world, across the spectrum of subject areas, and across educational levels. This book takes a detailed look at the state of the art of open and distance learning in higher education, and presents a fascinating picture of a world and its educational culture in transition. This edited collection contains authoritative analyses of key issues together with current accounts of practice in each region of the world. It includes*open and distance learning in relation to internationalisation, lifelong learning and flexible learning*costs of distance education *the impact of telecommunications*applications of open and distance learning in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and Oceania.It draws together experts in the field from all over the world, and has a truly international perspective on the phenomenon of open and distance learning. Its unparalleled breadth of coverage makes it an indispensable work of reference for experts and newcomers alike.