Review: Paul-Thomas Kandzia & Thomas Ottmann (2003). E-Learning für die Hochschule. Erfolgreiche Ansätze für ein flexibleres Studium [E-Learning in Universities. A Successful Approach for a Flexible Study]

Abstract

The concept is fantastic: studying independently of time and space. Within this notion of a virtual university, this scenario appears realistic. In particular, the continual advancement of technical possibilities gives credence to this aspiration. The reality of it, however, looks different. In fact, there is a multiplicity of single projects (mostly pilot), but a connection between the technical and the university is hard to find. The VIROR project, described in the anthology by KANDZIA and OTTMANN, is such a single project. Nevertheless, it does contain some interesting concerns about the establishment of a virtual university. In particular, financial aspects comprise the main problem; insecurity remains about whether parts of the project and/or the project team will get the opportunity to continue the work. Another fundamental problem is created by the technical cross-linking of the various universities involved, due to different systems and products being used and the need to harmonize them. Despite these and other problems, (like the different media authority of the students), the VIROR project shows positive beginnings for the future. Clearly, only solutions used by different universities at the same time will have a chance in the future. Isolated solutions will disappear from the market. URN: urn:nbn:de:0114-fqs0501157