An analysis of flexible learning and flexibility over the last 40 years of Distance Education. Issue 4 (2nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Veletsianos, George; Houlden, Shandell
• Is Part Of: Distance education. Volume 40:Issue 4(2019)
• Page Start: 454
• Page End: 468
• Publication Date: 2019-10-02
• Subjects: flexible education -- online learning -- flexibility -- distance education -- anytime anyplace learning; Distance education -- Periodicals; Distance education -- Australia -- Periodicals; 371.3505
• DOI: 10.1080/01587919.2019.1681893
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0158-7919

Abstract

ABSTRACT: In this paper, we report the major themes we identified in the literature surrounding flexible learning that has been published in Distance Education over the last 40 years. We identified six themes: the qualities of flexibility as affording "anytime, anyplace" learning; flexibility as pedagogy; liberatory or service-oriented aspects of flexibility; limitations of flexibility, especially in terms of technology, the constraints of time and space, as well as cultural differences; flexibility as a quality needed by instructors and instructional designers themselves; and critiques of flexibility as a concept. These themes suggest a complex understanding of flexibility, and one that could support future teaching and scholarly endeavours.