In the beginning of the activities of the field that today called “information technology”, in the mid-1950s, there were no courses (leading to academic degrees), dedicated to the subject. The professionals who worked in what was then designated as "computer science" were trained in different areas of knowledge such as- mathematics, physics, astronomy, biology, for example, those who brought with them a rich tradition of scientific practices (methodologies, validations , work  in distributed groups, detailed documentation, among others), which ensured strong foundation to the new field.

While distance learning is not in itself a new field, the introduction of digitized media represents a true revolution in this process, requiring institutions that offer study programs via web, new talents, inventiveness and vision.

The fiery expansion, in Brazil, of higher distance education institutions forced them to adapt themselves, with all speed, to options of classroom teaching formal education for those who never worked with education designed for younger generations of professionals. There were cases of successful performance and cases that ceased to infuse. It's time now to evaluate what has happened, what is happening and what should happen regarding those responsible for ODL in Brazil, starting with a question: They come from which educational fields? Those professionals without an academic training are more "open-minded" or more innovative? Teams formed by people coming from different educational and professional experiences have worked more successfully or have presented "congenital” problems?  What are the most appropriate ways to pursue the continuing education of ODL professionals?

There are equally relevant ways of studying the patterns of training and experience, attitudes and expectations, ambitions and claims of this generation which is responsible for the production of ODL in Brazil, whether senior or junior teachers (tutors) scientists, psychologists, designers, programmers, video producers or marketing managers. The different specialties that make up the community of professionals involved include important contributions to the modality development, increasing the excellence of ODL activities and creating conditions that ensure the satisfaction of working in this field.

                                                                                                          Prof Dr Fredric Michael Litto

                                                                                                                         Chairman and found ABED