THE USE OF INTERACTIVE MULTIMEDIA IN OPEN AND DISTANCE EDUCATION - EMERGING TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS

Over the past few years emerging trends and developments within Australia in open and distance education have been considerably influenced by the increased use of multimedia-based resources. Whilst print-based materials remain a primary learning/ teaching resource, multimedia materials are increasingly being used as an integral component of learning packages, e.g., videos, computer-based materials, CD-ROMs and audio tapes. This paper will focus on the ways in which interactive multimedia is being used in open and distance learning in Australia, and how delivery strategies for educational and professional development activities have been influenced by the introduction of interactive multimedia capabilities. It will discuss existing practices and the status of planned initiatives of practitioners in distance and open learning. The presentation includes a discussion on future directions in open and distance learning and the role of interactive multimedia, as well as raising critical issues which must be addressed when considering the introduction of interactive multimedia in an integrated teaching and learning strategy.