Otto Peters

Dr. Otto Peters developed some of the most influential perspectives on distance learning. His dissertation  from the University of Tübigenin established what he called the industrial model of distance education. This new model would elevate the correspondence study into a framework that was influenced by political, social, and economic factors. 

As Dr. Peters examined the various factors that influence distance education, he added legitimacy and urgency to the design of distance education. His research focus rejected the notion of teachers-as-artisans and imagined them instead as pieces within the greater systems that shape educational institutions. 

Although Dr. Peters started his research in Europe, his writing would influence distance learning around the world. He founded the FernUniversität in Hagen, Germany in 1975. He has held the title of Professor Emeritus since 1991. His global influence is matched by the global scope of his honorary doctorates (from England, USA, Hong Kong, Mexico, and Australia). 

Articles:

• Peters, O. (Ed). (1983). Distance education and industrial production: a comparative interpretation in outline. Distance Education: International Perspectives, London and New York: Croom Helm Routledge, pp. 95-113.

Books:

• Smith, O. (2012) Against the Tide: Critics of Digitalization.  University of Oldenburg. 

• Smith, O. (2013) Otto Peters on distance education: The industrialization of teaching and learning (D. Keegan, Ed.). Routledge.