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In this module, you will review professional
organizations, recognize acronyms, promote networking opportunities
and leadership initiatives in developing a
distance
education
program. The list includes
worldwide public, private, non-profit and commercial organizations and
associations related to distance education. These initiatives vary
in terms of size, have different relationships with government, business,
other organizations, and with the learners themselves. The organizations,
consortiums, and associations included in this module were selected due
to their relationships, services, and resources they provide to distance
education programs in the California Community Colleges.
Introduction:
As the information revolution grows
at an unprecedented rate, faculty, administrators, boards
of trustees and accrediting agencies are literally overwhelmed
by the problem of how to keep pace. Distance learning faculty,
learners, administrative and technical staff have distinct
roles and responsibilities that are different from traditional
on-campus environments. Readily accessible and informed
administrators, staff and technical support are essential.
As instructional delivery systems advance, more comprehensive
resources and structures are needed to support high quality
learning and communication processes. Critical
to the success of distance learning is the ability to use
and share a wide variety of materials to enhance the educational
experience.
One of the stages in the process of developing and implementing
effective distance education is the procurement and preparation
of the resources necessary to meet the distance education
goals. In support of the design and delivery of quality
courses, institutions are responsible for providing training
and resources for instructors. All distance education faculty
members require training aligned with their needs in pedagogical
and technical skills, including distance learning course
organization, planning, teaching and assessment strategies. .
Instructors need continual access to the physical resources
and human support that will enable development of high quality
teaching materials.
Partnerships with other colleges, universities, libraries
and publishers may extend your resources and services beyond
the geographic boundaries of a campus. Important elements
of a distance learning program may be supplied by consortial
partners or outsourced to other organizations, including
contractors. Criteria for selecting consortial partners
and contractors, and the means to monitor and evaluate their
work, are important aspects of the program plan. In
considering consortial agreements, attention is given to
issues such as assuring that enhancing serve to students
is a primary consideration and that incentives do not compromise
the integrity of the institution or of the educational program.
For example, did you know that any institution offering distance
education is expected to meet the requirements of its own
regional accrediting body and may be guided by WICHE Principles?
Do you know what WICHE or WCET is?
WCET - the Western Cooperative for Educational Telecommunications, founded by
the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education in
1989, is a membership-supported organization open to providers and users of educational
telecommunications.
WICHE, the Western Interstate Commission on Higher Education, (www.wiche.edu/)
was created to facilitate resource sharing among the higher education systems
of the West. WICHE has implemented a number of regional activities to accomplish
its objectives.
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