Links,exchanges,sharing

Abstract

Using Thames Valley University (formerly Polytechnic of West London/Ealing College of Higher Education) as an example, details of formal academic links, development of short courses for practitioners and unqualified practitioners; discussion meetings; staff and student visits; and overseas students on regular courses are described. The personnel involved and the purposes of sharing are discussed in terms of the U.K. and overseas personnel. The benefits of links, exchanges and sharing are identified in terms of U.K. and overseas institutions and personnel.

The issues of course location and delivery arc discussed in terms of cost; staff expertise; new and advanced developments; learning methods; and breadth of experience. Funding issues include capital versus revenue funding, and indigenous versus donor funding, etc. The problems of the unsatisfied user are explored. Finally, methods of fostering links, sharing and exchange programmes are identified.