Growing an E-Learning Programme for Rural Adults: A Case Study

This paper describes an e-learning third level diploma and degree course program delivered all over Ireland during 1996-2006 to rurally remote adults wishing to achieve a higher education qualification and to contribute to the development of their rural areas. The paper explores distance learning, e-learning, and lifelong learning outlining; · How did this programme emerge? · How was it designed, managed, presented and assessed? · Who are the learners? · What learning media are used? · What is the method? · What is the impact?, and · What are the lessons learned? The paper presents a brief case study of the bachelor in science in rural development degree (BSc) arising from consultations with 20 participants of the course addressing; · Their experience of e-learning. · The contribution of this e-learning course to their transformation and progression. · The impact of lifelong learning, through this e-learning course to their hope for the future. The findings seeks to illustrate the contribution of e-learning to lifelong learning as a model of educating “into” and “in” community, rather than educating “out of” community