Resource Development International (RDI),
an independent provider of UK university distance learning
qualifications, is offering its worldwide students a new way to study
for a UK university degree in 2009 – using their mobile phones. Through
its experience of supplying UK university distance learning
qualifications to Africa, where fixed-line broadband Internet is
limited but mobile broadband is more accessible and advanced, RDI has
decided to redesign some of its learning materials for delivery via
mobile networks. The scheme is being piloted with a major African
telecoms company. RDI already has hundreds of Africans studying by
distance learning, and the mobile initiative is designed to improve the
learning experience and make it easier for students to complete their
courses from any location with mobile connectivity.
The mobile
technology deployed is similar to that used by the BBC to publish its
mobile web pages, so it is optimised for mobile delivery and accessible
on almost any handset with web access.
The new system will be
incorporated into RDIs existing ilearn online university system. From
January 2009, it will be unleashed on more than 700 students based
across Africa, who are studying for a range of UK university
undergraduate and post graduate programmes through RDI. It will then be
rolled out to RDIs 5,000-plus students, located in more than 70
countries worldwide, over the course of the year.
We believe this
is a world first and a milestone that makes British education more
versatile, accessible and democratised than ever before, says RDI CEO,
Dr Philip Hallam (pictured). At a time when the rising cost of
education – and of living – is prompting an increasing number of
students to choose distance learning over on-campus education, their
lives are about to become considerably easier, thanks to the delivery
of invaluable learning materials via mobile handsets.
RDI offers
distance learning courses at MBA, MSc, BA (Hons), Diploma and Advanced
Certificate levels. All study at RDI is underpinned by the ilearn
system. An online university, free online campus and classroom rolled
into one, ilearn is designed to help students share knowledge, enjoy
the learning experience and progress through their studies with the
support they require. RDI students have constant access to course
materials, tutors, RDI programme co-ordinators and fellow students,
round the clock, from any location.