The role of the learning centers for Web-based Distance Education

Distance Education (DE) is not a new phenomenon but information technology has increased the use and accessibility to education anywhere and anytime. In Sweden, it is possible to study online courses on university level, using locally placed teaming centres (LC). Focus of the study was to get a better understanding of what role locally teaming environment, has on students performance. 14 interviews were conducted on Arvika LC, with both students and LC staff. The result show that a LC promote socialisation, technical and administrative support. Communication on organisational and pedagogical levels between LC, universities and students are though not satisfactory. Thus, we argue for the importance of teaming centres as mediators to facilitate a locally constructed teaming context.