Web-Based Learning in Remote Areas: An Evaluation of Learning Goals, Scenarios and Bidirectional Satellite Internet Implementation

Abstract

This paper presents the findings derived from a series of EC-financed projects aimed at supporting web-based learning in rural communities and other remote areas of Europe. The findings are mainly based on the case studies of ten pilot local learning hubs in the Beskidy Mountains, Poland. The results of four subsequent projects supported by different EU programs and conducted from 2006 to 2013 contributed to this study. These projects were conducted in Poland and 16 other countries of European Research Area (ERA). We will present the learning and research goals as well as the predominant learning scenarios. We will also show how innovative local social networks emerged to foster web-based and blended learning. A common feature of all the learning hubs was the need to use DVB-RCS bidirectional satellite internet technology for learning. We will present a multicriteria performance evaluation of the learning hubs in connection with their learning goals, adopted scenarios, and future development prospects.