The University, based in Riga, Latvia, is pioneering the development of open and distance learning in Latvia. Further info can be found at http://www.rtu.lv (though a working knowledge of Latvian will help)
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Riga Technical University The University, based in Riga, Latvia, is pioneering the development of open and distance learning in Latvia. Further info can be found at http://www.rtu.lv (though a working knowledge of Latvian will help)
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| Business Planning for Open Markets (BPOM) |  |
I've been working with Riga Technical University on a project to develop a training programme "Business Planning for Open Markets".
It's a multi-partner project, funded under the EU PHARE programme. The partners include Riga Technical University, Cable & Wireless, Lattelekom and the University of Tartu (Estonia).
I've asked Dr Atis Kapenieks to talk about the Distance Education Study Centre at Riga Technical University as well as the BPOM Project.
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Dr. Atis Kapenieks Director of Riga Technical University Distance Education Study Centre Could you start with a short description of Riga Technical University and the evolution of the Distance Education Study Centre. Response Could you give a brief introduction to yourself and your role at the Distance Education Study Centre. Response Please give a short overview of the BPOM Project – the need for it in Latvia, how it came about, how it is funded and what it aims to achieve. Response Briefly describe the course structure and content for BPOM and the role that ICT plays in the delivery of the course. Response Has ICT been important in aiding the development of the course? If so, please describe how ICT is used and its importance. Response What is the future for the BPOM course and for future developments at the Distance Education Study Centre? Response |
BPOM Development Project Summary:
The project aims to assist Phare country partners adjust to trading in open markets and thus aid their planned accession to the European Union. A key constraint identified by the Phare partners is the lack of business skills and understanding of the open market process amongst the working population. Using the EU partner's telecommunications industry experience of operating in deregulated markets, the project is aimed at educating managers in how market economies function together with writing a business plan. Alongside this, the project aims to develop knowledge and skills in applying structure, methods and tools in the development, presentation and implementation of business plans. |
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The distance learning course module will operate over a six-week period adopting a multi-technology approach. Multimedia CD-ROM materials have been developed, based on the resources and expertise of the Cable & Wireless College, the Universities at Riga and Tartu and the Riga Business School.
Throughout the course, tutors will facilitate an Internet-based Course Forum with the aim of stimulating a high degree of learner-learner-tutor interaction. This will involve the use of asynchronous discussions and provision of learning resources such as frequently-asked-questions (FAQs), news, library, discussion summaries, glossary of terms and technical support.
Learner assessments will take the form of self-assessment exercises together with formal assessments - electronic multiple-choice questions and individual projects. The course effectiveness will be evaluated through the use of learning journals, electronic evaluation forms and a post-pilot evaluation focus-group.
Tutors at Riga Technical University and the University of Tartu will be trained in delivering the course and course developers will be provided with relevant training in technology application, course design and course authoring. In this way, considerable co-operation between companies and educational institutions will be achieved both in the development and delivery phases.
A series of course administration tools have been developed to aid the management of the distance learning course, such as student and course records databases and analysis and reporting tools.
