In this contribution studies, papers, contributions, about Distance Education approaches in developing countries have been reviewed in which the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) plays an important part: Digital Distance Learning (DDL). A vast body of experiences, expertise and examples is available and makes it possible to put forward several recommendations. But there are also important shortcomings and blind spots. This brings the authors to the conclusion that without the construction of an evaluation infrastructure, DDL (in developing countries) will continue to suffer from inadequate evaluation approaches.A frame of reference - representing five dimensions - has been developed to screen the literature. Review, analysis, conclusions and recommendations are presented following these dimensions.The first dimension focuses on internal evaluation studies based on the analysis of performance. The second dimension focuses on internal studies that monitor student/client attitudes and perceptions as well as staff (quality).A third dimension presents external evaluation studies that focus on the socio-cultural environment, cost-benefit studies, feasibility studies and networks and network analysis. The fourth dimension concerns the stakeholder approach.The fifth dimension centers on media selection and media usage in (D)DE; Total Quality Management and ISO-certification; and studies focusing on Computer Mediated Communication.The report ends with ‘blind spots’ and ‘forgotten variables’ in the evaluation of DDL; for instance:? Hardly any attention is paid to the underlying ‘program logic’ of distance education activities and digitized ones in particular, while the same can be said about pedagogical transfer mechanisms and scenarios.? Information on the impact DDE evaluations have had on decision-makers, teachers and trainers is hard to find. Utilization of evaluation findings is not often addressed.? Though ICT opens up new ways for data-collection, we did not come across many studies making use of these possibilities. ? Acknowledging the importance attached to networking and ‘partnering’, the attention paid to these variables still is limited.? There are only a few evaluations of short term teaching and training programs; most of the evaluations looked into programs with a focus on credits and (academic) degrees |