By: Bob Stevens

Bob Stevens — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 23:38:01 +0000

Yes, even with impending budget cuts, it is wise to add more distance learning option for more graduate degrees.
Firstly, most all of these courses are already being taught on campus.
Secondly, distance learning credit hours are typically charged to the student (working and often their company is paying) at a much higher rate per credit hour than on campus. So, while you don’t say distance learning “makes money for the university”, it certainly pays for more than it’s share of the costs.
Thirdly, this is right in line with the university’s strategic enrollment plans; increasing distance learning graduate students.
Finally, most of these students would not have enrolled as graduate students on campus. In this day and age, they have the option of other campus’ distance learning courses in which to enroll.
My knowledge in this area is as the former chair of the Distance Learning team of the Corporate Development Council; alumni who directly provide advise and planning to the vice-provost of global learning and the faculty who teach distance learning courses.
We have been strong supporters of increasing distance learning. The only limitations were the number of distance learning classrooms and the efforts of faculty to develop effective visual aids for teaching in this environment (i.e. the professor can’t just go to the blackboard and “wing it”.)

By: Peter Martin

Peter Martin — Sun, 28 Dec 2008 21:54:46 +0000

Is this really the time to be introducing new programs? With the impending budget cuts wouldn’t the money be better spent retaining students that could other wise not be enrolled?

Comments on: Missouri S&T to offer two new online degree programs

By: Bob Stevens

By: Peter Martin