The institutionalization of Distance Education in Brazil: scenarios and perspectives

Abstract

This article aims to reflect about the institutionalization process of Distance Education (DE) in Brazil based
on analysis of activities established by the General Coordinators Forum System Open University of Brazil
(UAB) and the Chamber of Distance Learning Association Brazilian University Rectors State and Municipal
(ABRUEM). Through documental and bibliography research could be systematized: a brief overview of
Distance Education in Brazil; issues relating to legislation and quality criterion recommended by the Ministry
of Education and finally to finish a display of some points that are necessary to build a academic culture of
Distance Education that in the future will serve as regulatory boundary for institutionalization of Distance
Education in Brazil. Thus, Education and Research Institutions that educate professionals from different
fields of knowledge can get through the Distance Education (DE), alternative to overcome the geographical
dimensions, enabling people from remote areas have access to open and democratic education. Research in
this modality have shown that DE, besides reducing the problems of access to knowledge, can also provide
quality education and guided practice and social context of the learner.