Does the University of London have a history of providing distance education?
The University of London has a long history of allowing access to its degrees to students who are not themselves able to study in London. The University’s External System dates back to 1858, when students from anywhere in the world were permitted to present themselves for the University’s examinations. This development was, for its time, a considerable innovation, and had a notable effect in extending international access to University level study. There was, however, minimal teaching or student support involved in this process for the first 120 years of its existence, and the University’s involvement was limited to designing syllabi, conducting examinations, and awarding degrees. From the mid 1980s onwards, a different approach began to be taken, with students being provided with printed learning materials and various forms of tutorial support. In recent years, greater use has been made of internet resources, with the External System making significant investment in the design and con
