IMPLEMENTATION OF DISTANCE EDUCATION IN EU COUNTRIES AND ITS POSITIVE DEVELOPMENT TRENDS IN UKRAINE

Abstract

The article analyzes the implementation of distance education in European and Ukrainian universities. It is highlighted that the educational policies of European universities of distance learning are fully focused on the distribution of educational resources as well as on the improvement of teaching practices and the introduction of new information and communication technologies in educational process. Great Britain`s system of distance education is noticed to be the eldest and the most traditional one among the EU members, whereas the most developed and advanced systems of distant education are attributed to German, Spanish and French universities. It is revealed that there are positive development trends in the field of distance learning and technical training of tutors in Ukrainian universities. A general description of negative factors that thwart the progress of distance education is presented, particularly, the low-key role of existing educational system of Ukraine, lack of the government`s financial support. Some ways of solution are proposed, for instance, initiating the public events aimed at popularization of distance learning as well as carrying out regulatory reforms and funding the realization of distance education in Ukraine.