Defining Flexibility

So, how would you define flexible learning?

Here's one attempt:

Flexible learning is a strategy for student centred learning with several key factors. It should be free from restrictions as to physical space, time and cost to the student. There should be a choice of subject matter to be studied and a variety of learning styles accommodated in the delivery strategy. The ‘teacher’ should hold a role of facilitator rather than dispenser of wisdom as the student will be determining what constitutes value and wisdom for their individual context. To allow for maximum flexibility subjects should be presented academically and administratively in small portions.

How practical and sustainable would this vision be for your area?

I guess what I am trying to highlight is that your 'flavour' of flexible delivery does not have to be the same as someone else's.

Can you offer great flexibility in the times during a week or month that a student works, but the students need to come on campus to access some specialised or expensive software? Could students work online from anywhere, but need to start in groups so that learners can discuss issues with each other and collaborate on projects?

Is your flavour of flexible learning about catering to a range of learning styles? or maybe a range of locations where students can get support with IT, research and study skills?

Activity 1: Define Flexibility

Question: At the moment, what do you think is the most important type of flexibility for your students? 

Purpose: to develop a pool of thoughts about what constitutes flexibility and related client demands. 

Task: Post your thoughts in response to the above question in the discussion forum now in the "Activity 1: Defining Flexibility" thread. [link]

Respond: Consider the postings of others, identify similarities and contrasts with your own views. Ask questions to clarify points or discover the contexts in which people are workin