Distance learning technology and service support in Greece: The case study of the Aristotle University over the last decade

In this paper we present the distance-learning (DL) environment of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. The technical infrastructure is based on synchronous DL facilities. DL classrooms have been used successfully over the last decade. We present a generic data model for DL service provision. Supplementary services have also been developed in order to provide support for the DL service provision. The use cases of the DL service are described. The pedagogical issues regarding both students and teachers have been investigated using statistical surveys. The findings are presented in this paper. Finally, the conclusion and future work is discussed.