The pace of change in management is fast. Take a year out of work and you'll simply be left behind. But this is what many managers try to do, returning to their jobs with a head full of theory but bereft of practice, making the transition from learning back to managing a difficult one.

The other option is what is popularly known as 'distance learning', or what is becoming known as 'self directed learning' the pioneer of which is the Open University. At institutions such as the Open University Business School, the great emphasis is on supported Distance Learning, where students have regular contact with tutors and a huge amount of support in terms of course materials. One former student reflected on this: 'the teaching method helps you develop personally and stimulates your whole way of thinking, making you continuously challenge the given previously accepted paradigms'.

In distance learning courses such as these, all students are assigned a tutor who will stay in close touch through the use of the telephone, post, fax or e-mail, and will also meet up with the students at tutorials and seminars. Tutors mark written assignments and provide valuable feedback.

The pace of change in management is of course mirrored by that of technology. The advances in this field now mean that the interface between the institution and the student is yet more convenient and practicable through use of CD-ROMs, computer conferencing and the Internet to maintain contact, as well as video and audio.

Tutorials and assignments are also electronically adapted to reflect the student's own jobs and cultures, and explore theories and models prevalent in that country. In the same way, students who are suddenly transferred to another location or who change jobs during the course can remain in close contact with their course tutor.

This continuity allows students to apply to their work all that they are learning. Not only do they not have to take time out of work, but their employers feel the benefit of their employees' new-found knowledge immediately - an important factor for the 14,000 employers who have sponsored their managers through a programme.

While most managers would not be able to keep up with the very latest current management thinking whilst holding a full-time position, many research professors make it their business to be abreast of latest developments and pass their knowledge on - another benefit to supportive employers.

At many institutions, the fee for the programme is inclusive of all study texts and books, tutor support and tutorials, residential weeks, video and audio cassettes, course software, and examinations and support from the regional centre, so budgets can be planned and managed.

Most distance learning course programmes are flexible, but to complete one requires discipline. One OUBS MBA graduate commented that distance learning is good for firming up self-control and determination: "Just as in business, you must be disciplined and prioritise tasks.

It helps you have better control of the way you manage your life on a daily basis". Tutors will help students plan their studies and offer constructive and challenging feedback on how they are progressing.

Author
Jane Doyle
Open University