After print, the humble audiocassette is the most widely used technology in distance
education, in both single- and dual-mode institutions. Audiotapes are cheap to produce and
distribute, can be listened to almost anywhere, and can be easily reused. In arts,
science, and technology courses they can be used in conjunction with print materials
(diagrams, illustrations, photographs) to provide "audiovision," with an
instructor or expert providing commentary and guidance as the student views the material.
The educational potential of audio in such subjects as drama, poetry, and music is
self-evident. Audiotapes can provide instructions for hands-on manipulations or procedures
ranging from carrying out a home experiment to learning to use computer software. And they
can personalize a print-based distance education course, enabling the student to hear the
instructor's voice as he or she explains concepts developed in the print materials.
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