E6n Distance learning and e-learning in SEA
Gerard Brady, United Nations University, Tokyo
Brendan Barrett, United Nations University, Tokyo
Key issues to be addressed
Position Paper:
The purpose of this session is to examine recent experience with the development of online learning materials on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). The session will explore potential synergies between existing SEA e-learning initiatives internationally and regionally, and look at various methodologies designed to produce good quality distance and e-learning in SEA
It is important to recognize a number of key challenges facing the SEA educational and training community. First, the emergence of SEA among the environmental management tools and evolving theoretical basis implies that the institutional frameworks to support SEA are somewhat fluid; although regulations are still developing and practical experience is rather narrow (compared to say EIA), as a result, there is limited availability of relevant educational materials (online or otherwise). Second, online learning programmes present “content developers” with a significant number of challenges in terms of quality assurance, resources required and the need to respond to learner-teacher preferences for face-to-face teaching.
For e-learning on SEA to be engaging and successful, it would be required to overcome the above-mentioned constraints by exploring new and innovative approaches to teaching and learning that take advantage of information and communication technologies
The session will seek to call on recent experience with the development of online and distance learning materials on SEA. Potential synergies between existing SEA e-learning initiatives internationally and regionally will also be explored, and there will be a focus on various methodologies designed to produce good, quality assured distance and e-learning on SEA