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 specific 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 to 700-plus 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 RDI's 5,000-plus students, located in more than 70 countries worldwide, throughout the year.
Dr Philip Hallam, CEO at RDI, commented: "We believe this is a world first and a milestone that makes British education more versatile, accessible and democratised than ever before. 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. At RDI, we really are changing the face of education today."
RDI offers distance learning courses at MBA, MSc, BA (Hons), Diploma and Advanced Certificate levels. All study at RDI is underpinned by its exclusive 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 though 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.