Política Públicas de Educação a Distância : educação mediada pela tecnologia ou ensino de massa

Abstract

The main goal of this dissertation is to determine whether distance education models mediated by information and communication technologies-ICT, generated by public policies in Brazil, focus on the education of professionals or citizens are a mere instrument of mass education. The research was based on a case-study about models of distance learning in two universities. It seeks to determine whether these models constitute an effective instrument for human education and not just a mere instrument of mass education for dispensing diplomas. This study is relevant as it contributes to a theoretical model for distance education practiced in Brazil, especially in the state of Minas Gerais. This case of distance learning was chosen because of its specificity and complexity, and in view of the state s size and the lack of training in the municipalities of Ouro Preto and Juiz de Fora, and surroundings. The work of tutors, together with teachers is considered as a guide for all activities in virtual learning environment, even though the students have a wealth of tools available to carry them out. The presence and work of this team plays an important role in the educational process to the extent that their pedagogical action aims to encourage the mastery of subject content, their methodologies, resources and media aimed at the preparation of learning environments and conducting educational situations. In a larger sense, this work is intended as a reference for confirmation that distance education can offer in fact a qualified educational experience creating an opportunity for autonomous education, contributing to human development