Social representations of distance education

This case study considers how distance education can contribute to improving people's quality of life. The Microregion of Governador Valadares (MGV) in the state of Minas Gerais - Brazil has had its history driven by exploratory cycles and a peculiar migratory flow but is now revealing itself as an emerging educational centre. In this scenario distance learning has presented itself to residents as a dynamic and viable opportunity for professional development and qualification. In turn this type of education has been represented by the population as a model that contrasts with face-to-face education when in reality it is complementary. This investigation sought to identify the social representations of graduates from MGV higher education institutions in relation to distance learning as well as their perceptions of the effectiveness of distance learning postgraduate courses in creating the conditions for greater professional integration into the labour market.