The Learning College Manual

Distance Learning Quality and Definitions

DISTANCE LEARNING DEFINED

Consistent with the Commission on Colleges the College defines distance learning as that educational process that occurs when instruction is delivered to students physically remote from the main campus.  In this process, the requirements for a course may be completed through face-to-face interaction and/or through remote communications.  These processes are subject to the usual evaluation procedures associated with the Commission’s review process.

DISTANCE LEARNING QUALITY POLICY

To assure common curriculum course outcomes, students enrolled in off-campus and telecourses are administered an equivalent or comparable final exam as required in the on-campus course cognate.  Student achievement is evaluated based on performance in assignments and final examination scores.  Achievement results are monitored by Deans/Directors, and if significant deviation from on-campus achievement occurs, an investigation of causes will be initiated by the Dean/Director and shall involve all appropriate parties in order to determine modifications in delivery of course content if needed.

DISTANCE LEARNING COORDINATION TEAM

The Distance Learning Coordination Team shall assist faculty and staff in the planning, development, implementation, and improvement of distance learning technology resources including coordination of video conference facilities and events that enhance student learning. Membership shall include the: Director of Information Services and Technology, Distance Learning Technology and Support Coordinator (Chair), Distance Learning Training and Development Coordinator, Distance Learning Media Coordinator, and Webmaster.

DISTANCE LEARNING ADVISING TEAM

The Distance Learning Advising Team shall advise the Distance Learning Coordination Team by overseeing the development and expansion of distance learning courses, monitoring evaluations for course completion rates and course quality, and recommending policy regarding distance learning development and delivery. Membership shall include all members of the Distance Learning Coordination Team and the Dean/Director or their designee from the following areas:

• Applied Sciences and Technology
• Arts and Sciences
• Assessment, Planning and Research
• Business Sciences
• Continuing Education
• Developmental Education
• Polk Campus
• Student Services

DISTANCE LEARNING DEFINITIONS

Course Section Designators
(Based on Instructional Delivery Method

Type of Course	Code	Description of Instructional Delivery Method
Traditional	TR	The instructor and students meet face-to-face, according to designated dates, times, and location; the Internet is not used to deliver instruction.  [Note: May include online research components or other online resources. However, instruction is not delivered via Internet  in a ‘traditional’ course.]
Internet or Online	IN	100% of instruction is delivered through the Internet.  [Note: May include a required face-to-face orientation or proctored exams.]
Information Highway/Two-way Video	IH	50 - 100% of instruction is delivered by two- or more way video.
Web-supported or Web-assisted	WB	Primary instructional delivery is via traditional face-to-face method with a requirement that students have Internet access as a component of instructional delivery. [Example: A class that meets on a regular schedule, but students are required to access instructional material, submit assignments, and/or interact with the instructor and other students via the Internet.]
Hybrid	HY	Primary instructional delivery is on-line with a requirement that students also meet in traditional face-to-face sessions as determined appropriate by the college. [Example: An online course with a requirement that students attend one or more face-to-face labs.]

Reference:
Cross Reference:
Adopted:  July 17, 2001
Amended:  October 21, 2003; March 28, 2006