Using the new information and communication technologies for the continuing professional development of teachers through open and distance learning

Abstract

We live in a time of rapid and profound change during which both needs and opportunities for professional development keep growing as teachers strive to become lifelong learners. In this chapter, the authors explore how continuing education through open and distance learning (ODL) has evolved for the teaching profession with the use of information and communication technology (ICT). The new ICTs are then discussed and how their uses can be theoretically based, and the use of 3D virtual worlds such as Second LifeTM is examined. A framework for professional development is introduced and two cases of development using the new ICTs and ODL are presented. Problems and challenges are discussed.