The Role of Advanced Networks in the Education of the Future: A Report of Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria i-Lab Initiatives

Abstract

Many have predicted that a global network of affordable multimedia computers, on-line libraries, student-centered "leaning ware," and enhanced human communications in general will improve access to high-quality education on a scale that simply cannot be accomplished today. Although this may be a compelling vision of the future, many details, methods, capabilities, and even principles necessary to achieve it are not yet clear. Recent rapid progress on several fronts, however, suggests that much of this vision can be realized—and sooner rather than later. There is an exciting ferment in the entire field, both within and outside traditional institutions of higher education. This paper looks at how the emergence of an Advanced Internet has specifically broken the access, performance, and cost barriers that in the past have presented an insurmountable obstacle to the new vision of education at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria. It then discusses the more fundamental opportunities and challenges concerning missions, goals, roles, methods, organization, and evaluation that will face most institutions of higher education once the technical barriers have been removed.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013.v4n14p109