About IRFOL
Michael Young
Personnel
Consultants

The History of IRFOL

While open and distance learning has expanded dramatically over the last 25 years, the foundation of open universities in more than 30 countries is just one indication of this, research into ODL has lagged behind. As a result practitioners in distance education are often unable to draw on research findings to justify their practice or inform decisions about changes in practice.

IRFOL was set up in 1995 inspired by Michael Young (Lord Young of Dartington 1915 - 2002) who identified the need for a 'look out tower for open learning'.

IRFOL's functions were:-

• Research for policy makers - comparison of open and distance learning with conventional education systems (quality, cost effectiveness, and legitimacy)
• Research for practitioners - management and administration; teaching, learning and assessment; communication technology
• Support and training for researchers - particularly those working in institutions or countries with limited resources
• Consultancy and Development
• Publishing research findings