Distance learning and supported open learning worldwide

Recent advances in telecommunications have meant that students around the world are now able to study at any university from Algeria to Zimbabwe without leaving their own home town.

Compiled from the Open University's ICDL database, this UK directory contains details of over 1000 institutions in over 125 countries, with in-depth profiles and contact details for each.

This distance, or "open" learning allows remote students to study using the computer, audio or video conferencing techniques.

The internet provides a means of transferring data, course materials and software.

For students in many countries, this offers the only real means of achieving much-needed qualifications.