Marla J. Solomon, Ed.D., Dean of Graduate Programs at the School for International Training joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at the School for International Training.

Our approach is actually to combine face-to-face with distance learning components in many variations throughout our programs.  The purpose of this hybrid format is to build a strong learning community face-to-face which can stay strong throughout the distance learning process, bringing into our programs the best of both components. 

Our newest degree program format is our most distance-oriented.  The International Education Low Residency Master’s degree and Graduate Certificate programs are designed for working professionals who would like to obtain a graduate degree while continuing their careers. Professionals in fields such as education abroad, international advising and training, citizen exchange, and program development benefit from knowledge and skills that they can apply directly to their work, rather than having to wait for an internship or graduation. They receive course credit for documenting the integration of their knowledge and skills in a professional context while remaining engaged with faculty and other students.

There are a variety of other ways we incorporate distance learning into our programs.  All of our programs include a field-based practical component through which our participants apply theoretical knowledge and analytical frameworks in a professional career setting outside of the classroom.  This can be considered a form of distance learning as well. Depending on the program and specific learning objectives of the participant, this practice phase could involve experiences such as researching health needs in a community in Uganda, conducting teacher-training in Romania or coordinating an international exchange program in San Francisco.  Participants are supervised by faculty advisors who are practicing professionals in addition to being accomplished scholars who write and publish in their fields.  They help facilitate the participants’ full integration of theory, analysis and. practice through interaction on a course management website, email communications or in some cases, field visits.

For nearly 25 years our Summer Masters of Arts in Teaching (SMAT) program has provided a unique format for working language teachers to keep their jobs while working on a master’s degree. The participants devote two summer semesters of on-campus coursework to acquire the theoretical knowledge and develop the professional competencies that they will apply in their own classrooms during their Interim Year Teaching Practicum. During this practicum, an SIT faculty member observes their classes, wherever they are in the world, for a week. The rest of the year is spent reflecting on and writing a series of reports about different aspects of their teaching as they learn how to better monitor themselves and make their teaching more effective.

Another program for teachers that incorporates distance learning is the Teacher Training and Professional Development Institute, which provides professional development courses and workshops for teachers involved or interested in teacher training and supervision. Some Institute courses are taught on the School for International Training campus in Brattleboro, Vermont while others are taught entirely online and can be taken from anywhere in the world.

Although we do not offer programs that are totally delivered at a distance with no residential component, we have been moving more toward enhancing our field –based studies through technology, using online course management systems and other social interaction tools such as wikis, sharing of case analyses through discussion forums, podcasting, etc.. For example, our Conflict Transformation Across Cultures (CONTACT) Certificate program combines short-term residential sessions with online learning to minimize time away from jobs and families for peacebuilding professionals engaged in their communities around the world. The Graduate Certificate is a one-year, part-time, 14-credit graduate and professional development program.

Both CONTACT and the International Education Low Residency programs begin with a residential session in June at the School for International Training. This session provides a program orientation and some initial coursework as well as an opportunity for community building before leaving campus for the online component. The International Education Low Residency program also offers options to take elective courses in multiple locations, formats and times, including an intensive residential Intercultural Communication course offered at an overseas location or at our campus in Vermont.

We also have online courses such as Fundraising Principles that are offered for elective credit.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Our low-residency programs follow a more structured sequence as students complete the online coursework and reflective practice through their current jobs.  Graduate Certificate students should complete their program in one year, while Master’s degree students continue with another year of coursework for a total of 24 months. Individual courses are completed in a mini-term or a semester.

What would you say makes the School for International Training programs different than other comparable online programs?

We are known for our unique educational approach that integrates interdisciplinary learning, intercultural interaction and rigorous practice in real world settings to develop strong change leaders with intercultural competence and real world problem-solving skills.  Our online offerings, whether delivered through customized courses or low-residency graduate degree programs, allow professionals to access our programs without leaving the important work they are doing in communities around the world.  Our online offerings also emphasize collaborative experiential learning as do all of our programs. 

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing a college with online courses?

It is absolutely important and all of our programs are accredited. Before we launched the International Education Low Residency program, we sought and received approval from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges Inc. (NEASC) through its Commission on Institutions of Higher Education.

There is some debate as to whether or not online courses are as worthwhile as traditional courses. What steps does the School for International Training take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

The courses and faculty for the online and on-campus programs are the same, but in some cases a few adjustments were made in the sequencing and structure to adapt to an online format.  The development of the International Education Low Residency program was done in a highly participatory manner to ensure that the services such as career counseling, library, financial aid, participation in governance, etc. offered to those in the low-residency programs are the same as what the on-campus students receive.  Our library serves about 2,000 students a year at off-site locations around the world, enrolled in both our Graduate and Professional Programs and our undergraduate Study Abroad programs.  As a result, we have built and continue to grow our online accessibility, resources, and search tools with this idea of a global virtual campus in mind. 

What would you say are some of the benefits of learning online rather than in a traditional classroom?

A huge benefit is that students can continue working and remain connected to their families, careers and communities. They also continue to earn an income so that the financial burden of studies is not as great.

In terms of learning, many students thrive in an environment where they can read, reflect and interact with others who are experiencing similar situations but in varied socio-cultural, political or geographic contexts.  In our programs, we also utilize the online format to bring students together from and working in a variety of contexts and countries; the online environment gives them access to learning from and with each other while not located together. 

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

It is important for online program applicants to do a self-inventory to determine if this format would work with their learning style, schedule and resources.  We ask our program applicants to reflect on whether they manage their time effectively and independently and if they have access to and are comfortable with using various technology tools. Applicants are also asked to document their experience and familiarity with instructional technology or distance learning and how the setting (work and other) will contribute to their own and the learning of others in their cohort.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

SIT’s career center is an important resource for the career guidance, job searching, networking and professional development needs of students and alumni. Our students in low-residency programs will have the same access to resources as other students, including the Organization Resource Bank, an online collection of profiles of over 800 organizations and institutions worldwide.

Is financial aid available to online students?

Yes, since our programs are fully accredited, financial aid and counseling are available to students.

Can you tell us more about the School for International Training?

The School for International Training (SIT) is World Learning’s accredited institution of higher education.  World Learning is a 75-year-old nonprofit international organization with four divisions: the School for International Training, which includes SIT Study Abroad and the Graduate and Professional Programs; World Learning for International Development, and The Experiment in International Living.

SIT is committed to ensuring that its students are effective in cross-cultural settings and that they understand their citizenship responsibilities transcend local and national boundaries.  SIT Study Abroad provides undergraduate students with a distinctive international education in over 45 countries worldwide — including more opportunities in the developing world than any other program of its kind.  SIT awards master’s degrees in Teaching; International Education; Sustainable Development; Conflict Transformation; Social Justice in Intercultural Relations; Management; and Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management.

If you would like to request more information about the programs available through the School for International Training, please visit our website: go here or contact one of our admissions staff go here.

What do you enjoy most about your position at the School for International Training?

The School for International Training has provided me a place to grow and learn professionally for the last several years.  Our students are committed, passionate, and dedicated to making the world a better place.  It’s exciting to work with them and to try to build programs that help them get the education they need to meet their goals.

To request more information on distance learning programs at School for International Training, go here to visit them online. 

Thank you Marla, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!  

Dawn Drake, Executive Director for Alternative Delivery Systems at University of Wisconsin - Platville joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

UW-Platteville offers 3 graduate programs (Criminal Justice, Engineering, and Project Management) and 2 undergraduate programs (Business Administration and Criminal Justice) completely online.  In addition, there are several online certificate programs available and students can also take individual classes  to transfer into another program or for professional development.  For a complete listing of our programs and courses, visit our Website.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Our individual courses are set up on a typical semester basis (16 weeks in fall and spring and 10 weeks in the summer).  Most of the students in our programs are taking classes on a part-time basis, while working full time, so the duration of the programs is completely determined by the individual student.  We do not require students to take classes in a cohort basis, so each student can determine the amount of credits they want to take and in which semesters, to best fit their individual needs.

What would you say makes University of Wisconsin-Platteville program different and better than other comparable online programs?

Our online programs are an extension of the successful programs that we have available on our campus, which has a great educational history of nearly 150 years.  All students have an academic advisor, classes with an average enrollment of 22, and access to all academic and administrative services in a centralized Distance Learning Center.  The level of interaction that occurs between students and with the instructors of the courses is very high.  In addition, the student body is very diverse.  We have had students from all 50 states and 42 countries during the past 5 years.  Since most of our students are non-traditional in nature, they bring a wonderful combination of work and life experiences to the classes and share this wealth of experience in their discussions and group projects.   Distance education is a distinct part of the university’s mission statement and is incorporated into all aspects of campus reports and activities.  Selected students and alumni from the programs serve on a Student Advisory Board and Alumni Advisory Board that focuses on distance education topics and initiatives. 

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Given the high standards of becoming accredited, I believe it is very important to know the accreditation status of an institution when choosing an online program.  Since students are not part of an on-campus environment, it is difficult to determine the quality and operations of the institution.  Accreditation provides an opportunity for students to be reassured that the institution must maintain a certain level of quality and standards throughout their operations.  University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently completed their accreditation process and received a full 10-year reaccreditation.  The following statement regarding distance education was part of the final report submitted by the accreditation team:

“The Distance Learning Center provides outstanding support to students and  faculty engaged in distance learning.  The Center provides a single point of access  for student learners where they receive administrative and technical support, and  access to student services, library resources, and course materials.  The Center  assures that best distance education practices are implemented across the curricula  it supports and seeks to constantly improve the e-learning environment for  students.”

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees.  What steps does University of Wisconsin-Platteville take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

The curriculum for the programs is developed and approved through the same process that is followed for our on-campus programs.  There is a large system of checks and balances that exist to make sure that the quality of the online programs is very high.  In addition, there is required training that all faculty participate in who will be developing and/or teaching online classes.  There is also an established minimum set of quality criteria that must be included in each online course.  If these elements are not present before the semester begins, the course is canceled.  Appropriate educational assistance and resources are also made available to all online students.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online, rather than in a traditional classroom?

Based on student feedback, the two biggest benefits of earning a degree online is the flexibility and convenience associated with the programs.  Students do not need to relocate, quit jobs, or defer participation in family activities to continue their education.  Since all of our programs are offered in an asynchronous format, students can log on to the classes when it is convenient for them during the day or night.  The other big benefit is the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of people in classes and the ability for that interaction to occur beyond the classroom.  In a traditional on-campus setting, a conversation gets cut short due to limited time in the classroom.  The online classroom is open 24/7, which encourages fuller, deeper, and higher levels of discussion and interaction.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have a means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

Since the vast majority of our online students (over 97%) are non-traditional in nature, they are already working full or part-time and are not in need of internships.  However, we have had a handful of traditional age students who have approached other class members to ask if they had internships available in their companies and a few have been set up in this informal format.  If traditional students become a larger portion of our student body, we would take this issue into consideration.

Does University of Wisconsin-Platteville off any job placement services to your students and graduates?

As mentioned above, most of our students and alumni are already employed.  However, the campus career services office does offer an online career and placement service for current students and alumni who are interested in participating.  Students and alumni are able to receive career counseling, resume evaluations, and job search techniques online.  In addition, they can post a resume to the online system for employers to review and access all job postings.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Both state and federal financial aid opportunities exist for students in the online programs.  In addition, a large number of students receive tuition reimbursement from their companies.  A limited amount of scholarships are also available for online students.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

There are three pieces of advice that I would give students who are enrolling for their first online class:

a. Take advantage of the services that are provided by the institution.  UW-Platteville has a wide array of academic and support services available to help students be successful in their online courses.  If you have questions, ask—don’t ignore problems you are having.

b. Do not get behind in your classes.  Just because you do not have to attend an on-campus class, does not mean there are no deadlines.  Carefully review the assignment deadlines and establish a schedule for studying and submitting your work. 

c. Develop a support system with your family, friends, and work colleagues.  Since the majority of our students are trying to combine their educational goals with all of these other people and activities, it is important that you have a good support system set up to help keep you motivated to complete your assignments, courses, and degrees.

What do you enjoy most about your position at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville? 

The most rewarding part of my position at UW-Platteville is knowing that I am helping students continue their education.  For many of our students, there would be no other opportunity for them to earn their degree, if it was not available online.  Understanding the importance of higher education, it is extremely fulfilling to know that our programs have made such a big impact on our students’ lives.  We continually hear these comments from our students and alumni.  This is also an industry in which there are continual changes.  So, personally I always feel that I’m being challenged professionally to stay updated with all of the current distance education information.

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Dawn, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview! 

Alan Davis, Distance Education Associate Dean for Jefferson State Community College joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Jefferson State Community College.

The mission of the Distance Education Department at Jefferson State Community College is to provide accessibility to education through a broad range of quality courses in various disciplines.  JSCC offers many online courses for transfer credit (university parallel degree programs).  The college also has three accredited career education programs that are available through distance education:  Veterinary Technology, Physical Therapist Assistant, and Funeral Service Education.  JSCC also offers several online courses toward many other AAS degrees and certificates.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Associate degrees are typically thought of as two-year degrees; however, students may complete most programs at their own pace on either a full-time or part-time basis. 

What would you say makes Jefferson State Community College programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

JSCC has provided countless opportunities for the greater Birmingham area for over 40 years.  The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools fully accredited the College on December 14, 1968.  JSCC has a history of offering distance education courses:  we began offering telecourses in 1978, began using interactive video and offered our first online courses in 1997, and are now using podcasts in distance education as well.  Faculty who teach these classes typically are the same faculty who teach traditional versions of the same courses and often hold on-campus office hours.  Tuition is also very affordable.  Finally, we participate in a statewide articulation agreement, which ensures transfer of credits for all Alabama General Studies Committee approved courses between public institutions of higher learning.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Extremely important!  Accreditation ensures a certain level of quality in the educational process.  In addition, accredited institutions will often only accept courses for transfer if completed at regionally accredited institutions, and whether one has graduated from an accredited institution may have a bearing on how the degree is viewed.  For example, when we hire, graduate work must generally be from a regionally accredited institution for us to consider the applicant.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Jefferson State Community College take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

Distance education courses are taught by qualified Jefferson State instructors.  Upon successful completion of these courses, students receive credit equivalent to traditional on-campus courses.  JSCC has established course competencies for each course we offer.  We have also developed standards for teaching online and a peer course evaluation process to ensure the same integrity and rigor in our online courses as students receive in traditional classes.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

JSCC strives to provide flexible learning opportunities to meet the needs of students who have difficulty accessing the campus for a variety of reasons including childcare, transportation, physical disabilities, work responsibilities, etc.  People are able to complete courses regardless of their work and family schedules.  Many of our distance education students would not be able to attend college without the option of online courses.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

Program coordinators assist students with finding internships.  Students who do not already have a job in their field are often placed at the college in appropriate departments.  In the past, companies have called wanting an intern, and students have been placed with them. 

Does Jefferson State Community College offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

Yes.  The Career and Job Resource Center at JSCC offers a variety of services not only to students, but to community residents and businesses. 

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Yes, financial aid is available for students who qualify through the federal guidelines. There are also a variety scholarship opportunities for students.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

Check the accreditation status of any institution you are considering.  Keep in mind that online classes are not “easier” than on-campus classes.  They require as much work and self-discipline, and perhaps more self-motivation.  Be sure you have the requisite computer skills.  Typically, these include navigating the Web, uploading and downloading attachments, and word processing skills such as copying, pasting, and editing text.

What do you enjoy most about your position in the Jefferson State Community College?

I believe in Distance Education.  We have been able to provide educational opportunities for Katrina victims, military personnel serving in Iraq, recent transplant recipients and people waiting for organ transplants, students with various physical disabilities, workers whose schedules vary from week to week, and busy parents.  This is a rewarding job for these reasons.

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Jefferson State Community College, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Alan, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview! 

Preston DuBose from the Office of Distance Education at Texas A&M University joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Texas A&M University.

Texas A&M offers 20 graduate degrees and 3 graduate certificate programs by distance education. The entire list of degrees and certificates can be found at by Clicking Here.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Distance programs at Texas A&M follow the same format and requirements as on-campus graduate programs, consequently the durations are roughly the same. Figure 2 to 3 years for a master’s degree and longer for a doctoral degree.

What would you say makes Texas A&M University programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

As a major research university, Texas A&M attracts world-renowned experts as a part of our faculty. The degree programs by distance education are taught by the same award-winning faculty who teach on our campus. The faculty at Texas A&M includes winners of the Nobel Prize, National Medal of Science, Pulitzer Prize, World Food Prize and Wolf Prize, with 26 holding membership in the prestigious National Academy of Sciences or the National Academy of Engineering.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Accreditation should be extremely important. These days there are many accredited online colleges from which to choose. Even if you’re just taking a class for the knowledge and never expect to transfer the credit somewhere else, you’re still safer choosing an accredited college. For one thing, you never know when circumstances will change and you’ll need those college credits after all. If the college isn’t accredited, you’d be out of luck.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Texas A&M University take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

In many if not most cases, at Texas A&M the syllabus for on-campus and online courses is identical. In fact, some online courses are provided with streaming video from Texas A&M’s on-campus sections. Both sets of students then have the opportunity to mingle and ask questions in online class forums. Furthermore, each program undergoes periodic, rigorous review, and online courses are treated to the exact same standards as on-campus classes. Finally, Texas A&M’s accrediting body has outlined the expectation that on-campus and online courses provide the same education, so it is something we must do to stay accredited.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Online degrees generally offer the convenience of reviewing course materials at a time that best fits your schedule. Online degrees are great for working adults who can not quit their jobs and possibly even move their families near a campus. Instead you can keep working your 8-5 job, put the kids to bed at night, then log into your class and watching a lecture or read your assignments.

Another fringe benefit is that online classes can actually be better structured than their classroom counterparts. We’ve all probably had a least one classroom professor who always showed up at the last minute and lectured off the cuff with no clear teaching goal. However, teaching online requires that the lessons be prepared in advance.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

While faculty can help our students find internships in their fields, most of the distance students enrolled in Texas A&M’s graduate programs are already employed. In many cases, their employer is actually helping to defray the cost of their educations.

Does Texas A&M University offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

Texas A&M’s Career Center serves all students at Texas A&M, regardless of whether or not they can come to the Career Center. The Career Center offers advising by e-mail, an electronic portfolio, and a web-based Aggie job board with positions posted by employers from all over the world.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Yes. In most ways, at Texas A&M distance students are treated the same as on-campus students and financial aid is no exception.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

You will need strong time management skills. Schedule a certain time of day—even if it’s 10 PM—to work on your class material. If you don’t block out the time and treat it just like classroom time, you’ll find other activities crowding out your study time.

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Texas A&M University, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Preston, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview! 

Pam Youngs-Maher, Director of Distance Learning for Onondaga Community College joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Onondaga Community College.

Onondaga Community College currently offers appoximately 50 Associate degrees, with six of those fully online.  The six online degree programs are:

• Business Administration A.S.
• Criminal Justice A.S.
• General Studies A.A.
• Human Services A.S.
• Humanities A.A.
• Math Science A.A.
A certificate program in Early Childhood Certificate is available.

We are in the process of building several additional online degree programs and will be rolling them out over the next three to four years.  Two of the degrees that are near completion for online delivery include our new Liberal Arts/Adolescent Education A.A. (Teacher Education Transfer) degree, and our Labor Studies A.S. degree. 

Our goal in putting degrees online is to increase access to education for working and parenting students, and for those with geographic or place bound constraints that prevent them from coming to campus.  Having said that, we also have a number of degrees where at least 50% of the required courses can be completed online.  Many adult students are able to juggle work and/or family and college by taking a mixture of traditional face-to-face (F2F) courses on campus or off campus with online courses in order to complete their degree in a timelier manner.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Most of our Associate’s degrees require between 62 to 65 credits.  Students attending full time typically complete a degree in two years.  However, many of our students who take online courses attend Onondaga part time as they juggle other commitments, so depending on how many courses and credit hours they are able to fit into their lives each semester, they may take longer to complete a degree program. 

What would you say makes Onondaga Community College programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

When Onondaga Community College decided to offer complete degrees online, we built some foundation pieces into our online program.  Of primary importance to students are our 4 Cornerstones.  Each online section is built with attention to Teaching Presence (faculty and students alike are engaged in sharing perspectives and helping each other learn), and Social Presence (infusing the instructor’s personality and a good deal of interaction into the course). The third element is Active Learning – being very clear in our expectations that students have an active role in succeeding online, and clearly articulating our expectations.  And the fourth and final cornerstone is Academic Integrity.  We explain what academic honesty means, and that all members of the class are part of a learning community which depends on the members doing their work, and recognizing the work of others.  We also explain right up front the penalties for cheating, and invite students to document that they have read our document about academic integrity and understand the principles and the consequences for violating the policy.  This has helped us tremendously in both avoiding problems, and in processing those instances where students do cheat. 

From a student perspective, we offer very affordable courses relative to the price tag of private colleges since we are part of the SUNY system.  Equally important, the college has committed to a smaller sections with online sections – no more than 20 students.  Some courses have a lower cap, such as our Italian and German sections as well as some math courses. 

Finally, we only build a certain number of new online courses each term.  Our instructional design team partners with our faculty in building sound online courses without being stretched too thin or releasing courses that don’t fit our online degrees.  The fact that our Distance Learning Staff review every online course and read every document with an eye toward student learning before the course runs helps make for a better experience for our students.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Given that we award Associate degrees, it is very important for all degree programs and students.  Students as consumers need to know that when they get ready to transfer to a 4 year degree program their courses and credits will be accepted at the college they attend next.  Most of the online degrees we offer are transfer degrees.  The transfer process is much easier with a degree from an accredited SUNY College. 

Onondaga Community College is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) which has international recognition for quality.  Onondaga Community College is regionally accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.  This accreditation process occurs every ten years.  Students earning degrees who choose not to transfer are served equally well by this accreditation process that examines the quality of the degrees conferred by Onondaga.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Onondaga Community College take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

We have about 70 faculty teaching online for us.  More than 80% are full time faculty teaching our traditional courses.  Several of our adjuncts are retired faculty, too, so most online students are learning from the same faculty who teach on campus for us. 

I would also refer to the 4 Cornerstones mentioned earlier.  Each course is built with quality in mind, and is reviewed with an eye for those benchmarks.  The faculty who build online courses do so in partnership with our online learning department.  We provide 15 hours of faculty development workshops in online pedagogy and tools in the Learning Management System at our college (we use ANGEL), another four to six hours of planned one on one time with the faculty developer, another 10-12 hours per course reviewing the design and the flow of the online section, and then unlimited assistance at the request of any faculty member building a course.  Our online sections are really built with a lot of attention to detail and quality.  The syllabus for the online section is the same as the one for the face-to-face (F2F) sections.  What differs is the selection of teaching and learning strategies; you can’t simply put a F2F course into an online template and meet the 4 cornerstones. 

Onondaga’s faculty often come to our office after a year of teaching online and tell us how they believe the experience has made them better educators  - online and in their F2F sections. They also believe many students open up online and perform better than they do F2F.

The last point is that when a student receives his or her transcript or diploma, there is no mention that the course/program was online.  So another college or employer won’t see a difference.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Honestly, we know from the research available that online learning is not for everyone.  Those students who are disciplined and motivated to earn a degree tend to do better online than others.  And, adult students who know what they want to learn and value education tend to migrate to the online medium when they can’t pursue their degree F2F.  So for those students who start out with the motivation and the discipline to get on the computer at least 3 days a week for each course and do the reading, the homework, and meet the established deadlines – they build even better organizational skills.  Many build stronger computer literacy skills too, though you need a good set of computer skills to start an online program. 

Perhaps the most often cited benefits we hear from our online learners include: 1 – getting to know their classmates and professors better than they did in face to face courses, 2 – really developing a proficiency in how to learn (active learning), and 3 – getting the courses or degree that might not have come to fruition otherwise.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

Actually, a couple of our online degrees include internships.  The Human Service degree has internship/field placement requirements in early childhood, teaching, social work or alcohol and substance abuse counseling depending on which option one selects in that degree.

The faculty are often able to facilitate internship opportunities. Often students come to us with employment experience in these locations but need a degree to move ahead in their career.  Students in the Criminal Justice program also need work place experience to complete their degree, and again faculty are often able to facilitate this process.  Many faculty are part of professional networks that connect them with people who can assist students around the state, and sometimes around the country.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Yes, students who are matriculated in our degree programs (i.e. applied to the college and admitted as a student) are eligible for financial aid.  They must be at least half-time (taking 6 or more credit hours in a term (fall, spring or summer) and be in good academic standing with the college.  Students must also be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen, not be in default or owe a refund for any federal student aid, and if applicable, must be registered with the Selective Service.

Financial aid is based primarily on a student’s need for assistance and will not be denied based on race, creed, color, sex, age, disability, national origin, sexual orientation or status as a disabled or Vietnam veteran.  Aid is available in several forms.  Grants and scholarships may be awarded on merit and need; student loans approved must be repaid with interest, and work-study programs can provide work experience while the student pursues a degree or certificate.  Various sources are tapped for financial aid, including the federal government, NY state, institutional and private sources.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

1 – Make sure you have a good computer, good reading skills, and a desire to learn!

2 – Make sure you can carve out the hours needed each week for each course (this depends on the course and what the professor expects, as well as the length of term – 5, 7, 10 or 14 weeks).

3 – If the college offers an orientation, take advantage of it so you know how to navigate online!

4 – Be sure to advocate for yourself when you have questions or concerns; online courses require students to be active learners.  Be polite, but make sure you have a clear picture of what the schedule of assignments will be, the policy for add/drop, and how to access online services such as tutoring.

What do you enjoy most about your position at Onondaga Community College?

I am passionate about online learning.  It has a leveling influence for a lot of our students; those students who find this a match with their learning style or who can’t come to campus often perform better in online classes. They can think about their answers rather than dive into rapid fire discussions in the F2F class, they can spend time working on the course when it is convenient for them…. 

Our online faculty have become staunch advocates for online teaching. Many of them like the level of interaction with their students, and they often tell us this has given them new energy and a new perspective on teaching and learning.  So we are clearly providing increased access to education for hundreds of learners based on the data we have, and we are providing a learning environment that some students just thrive in. Again, it’s not for everyone, but many like it as much or better than traditional classes.  Last, we’ve helped many faculty feel a sense of renewal in their role in helping our students become better lifelong learners.  Who could ask for more?!

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Onondaga Community College, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Pam, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!

Steve Cole, Division Chair, Adult, Continuing & Distance Education for Cossatot Community College - University of Arkansas joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas.

CCCUA currently offers four fully online degree programs:

Associate of Arts
Associate of General Studies (The first online degree in the state of Arkansas)
Associate of Applied Science - Business Management
Associate of Applied Science - Medical Assisting

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Two to two and a half years to complete.

What would you say makes Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

Because of the attention to detail and built-in quality. For one, all programs are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and other major-specific accrediting bodies. Another reason is all of our courses and instructors have to go through a course review and course observation to ensure quality. And our programs are supported by an online tutoring center.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online
college?

100% a must!

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

Same course syllabii as the traditional courses. Review and observation comparable to traditional courses. Same tutoring and library resources available as traditional courses.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Flexibility is number one.
Cost-saving is another.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

No, not at present time.

Does Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

Yes. In fact we just hired a new placement officer.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Absolutely. Scholarships too! Especially for online students.

What do you enjoy most about your position at Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas?

The ability to formulate policy that can HELP students succeed.

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Cossatot Community College-University of Arkansas, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Steve, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!

Jessica Brown, MA, Public Relations for Columbia Southern University joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Columbia Southern University.

One of the nation’s first completely online universities, Columbia Southern University (CSU) offers associate, bachelor, masters and doctoral programs in a variety of fields including business administration, information technology, human resource management, fire science, criminal justice, and occupational safety and health.  Undergraduate and graduate certificate programs are also available.   

In addition to offering and promoting its own programs, CSU also promotes online programs for three state universities – The University of West Alabama, University of North Alabama, and University of West Florida. 

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

CSU students can set their own pace for completing a degree program. Students are allowed 10 weeks to complete each course, but may finish a course in as little as three weeks depending on how quickly they complete the coursework. Following completion of the required Student Orientation course, students are also given the option to complete one course at a time or two courses simultaneously.

What would you say makes Columbia Southern University programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

All our degree programs are offered completely online, giving students the flexibility to fit their education around career and family commitments.  CSU also features open enrollment and self-paced programs eliminating the need for students to rearrange their life to attend a class or take a test.  Forget the days of scheduled online sessions and on-site test taking; at CSU, residency is not a requirement and coursework can be completed at times that are most convenient for our students.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Accreditation should be a determining factor in every student’s online university selection.  CSU is accredited by the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC), the standard-setting agency for distance education institutions since it was established more than eight decades ago.  DETC is a nationally recognized accrediting agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education.  Only accredited universities and colleges are eligible to participate in the Montgomery G.I. Bill and DANTES tuition assistance program.     

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Columbia Southern University take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

All CSU courses combine the very best of online delivery and traditional university textbooks.  Just like red brick and mortar universities, course specific faculty members are assigned at the beginning of each course to provide students with the academic support they need to successfully complete their degree.  Our students are also assigned a student services representative who will offer personal guidance and advice throughout their degree program.  Students learn on their own times and their own terms, but they are never on their own. 

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Earning a degree online gives students the flexibility to fit their education around career and family commitments.  The firefighter with an unpredictable schedule, the soldier shifting from place to place to preserve our freedom, the single mother working hard to advance her career and support her children – everyone deserves access to a quality education.  With benefits like 24 hour access to course assignments, online forums, web lectures, and interactive software, online education makes completing a degree more realistic.  Students eliminate the need to rearrange their life to attend a class or take a test. 

Does Columbia Southern University offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

We have recently implemented a new social networking platform, the CSU Click, that allows our alumni to browse career opportunities from around the world, post professional profiles, and network with the more than 9,000 other CSU alumni.  Job postings are updated every 30 days and include listings from companies such as Apple, Bank of America, Ford Motor Company, Google, and Intel.  CSU Click also offers alumni the ability to reach out to graduates employed with companies they’re interested in working for.   

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

Completing a degree through distance learning requires the highest level of self-discipline and motivation.  You must be an independent thinker and have full dedication to the end result – achieving your dreams of higher education. 

What do you enjoy most about your position at Columbia Southern University?

Seeing students you know have struggled to accomplish their dreams of higher education graduate is one of the most rewarding professional experiences I’ve ever had.  To know that our online degree programs make a major difference in the lives of so many makes coming to work each day a privilege. 

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Columbia Southern University, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Jessica, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!

Shirley M. Adams, Ph.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs, Charter Oak State College joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Charter Oak State College.

Charter Oak State College is part of the state system in Connecticut.  It was founded to serve adult students through non-traditional assessment and delivery methods.  It is accredited by New England Association of Schools and Colleges.  Charter Oak offers four general studies degrees—an associate in arts, associate in science, bachelor of arts, and bachelor of science.  Within the bachelor degrees, students can earn content specific concentrations in over 40 areas.  In addition, Charter Oak offers credit certificated programs in computer security, public safety, after school education, project management, and health insurance customer insurance.

Students earn credits by taking our online or video courses, through our portfolio review process, contract learning or special assessment process, by taking standardized examinations, by taking courses at other institutions, by taking courses recommended for credit by the American Council on Education or National Program on Non-collegiate Sponsored Instruction, including military credit.  Charter Oak has a very liberal transfer policy, and in many cases, the entire degree can be earned elsewhere.

Charter Oak offers over 150 online courses and has another 20 in development.  Students can complete their associate’s degree by just taking our online courses and can also complete many of the bachelor’s degrees by just taking our courses.  We offer all of the courses for the American Studies, Business Administration, Child Study, Child and Youth Development, Health Care Administration, Organizational Leadership, Organizational management, Public Safety Administration and Public Administration concentrations.  We will soon have all of the courses for Computer Information Systems, Criminal Justice, and Child Study/Montessori online.  Other concentrations require that you earn credits at other accredited institutions or in other formats.

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Most of the courses are either 8 or 15 weeks in length, with a few that are 5 weeks in length.  This often allows working adults the flexibility to take two to three courses per semester.

The average age of our students is 41 and the average amount of credit the students bring to Charter Oak is around 80, therefore we offer most courses every semester and we rarely cancel courses.  If a course has to be cancelled, we are usually able to do a learning contract between the instructor and student.

What would you say makes Charter Oak State College programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

Charter Oak has a faculty approved process for online course development and review.  In addition, there is a faculty development site for the ongoing development of faculty.
In most cases, the courses are taught by the same instructors who developed the courses.  We have redesigned the course shell to provide for consistency in course layout and easier navigation for both students and faculty.  We are in the process of moving all of the courses to the new format.

Charter Oak has over a 90% retention rate in its online courses.  Part of the reason our retention rate is so high is that all of our courses use the threaded discussion feature in order to make the courses highly interactive.  We have found that students want this interaction with the other students and with the instructor.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

I think regional accreditation is very important.  At the current time, regional accreditation is the gold seal.  It means that the programs have gone through the same review process as on ground programs; and, in some cases, a more thorough review.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Charter Oak State College take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

We have been offering non-traditional degrees for over 34 years.  Our alumni surveys have shown that our students have had no difficulty in having their degrees accepted by graduate schools or business and industry and that their degree from Charter Oak has well prepared them for work or further education.

In addition, as noted in question 3, we have a review process in place for our courses for both content and pedagogy, agreed upon guidelines for how courses should operate, i.e. grading rubrics, threaded discussions, and response time by faculty.  This assures quality.

We have also conducted grade comparisons comparing the grades our students earn on our courses with the grades they earn on courses they transfer in after they are matriculated. The results show that our courses are equal in rigor to those our students take at other institutions. Our end-of-course evaluations also confirm that students find the courses demanding and educationally sound.

We provide many of the same support services that students would find at a traditional college, only we do them online—tutoring, writing assessment, orientation, advising, book store, and library.  We hold chat sessions and Webinars monthly on a variety of topics, including degree planning, financial aid, etc.  We also have an e-lounge for students so they can talk to one another.

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Our students tell us the biggest benefits are:  being able to earn their degree and take courses within a structure that allows them flexibility; having a chance to learn from students all over the world; improved writing and critical thinking skills; and having become a more self-directed learner.  Often our student say that if it was not for the online format, they would have never have completed their education.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

We currently require students to find their own internships.  The internship would have to be approved by one of our faculty members and it would be graded by that person as well.  A learning contract would be developed, including course outcomes and requirements.  The faculty member would also contact the person at the internship site before the contract is agreed to.

Does Charter Oak State College offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

No, we do not offer job placement services.  Most of our students are already employed.  However, we provide links to on online websites for information on resume writing and career opportunities.  We also, offer workshops on online graduate programs for our students.  We offer the workshops here at Charter Oak and via Web casting.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Yes, financial aid is available.  They must meet the federal guidelines for eligibility.  The College also has scholarships available.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

If a program offers an online orientation or tutorial, take the time to go through them.  Online courses are not easier than on ground courses, so don’t sign up for more online courses than you would if you were taking them on ground.  If you haven’t written a research paper in a long time, you might want to take a writing course to refresh your skills.  Online courses are writing intensive and usually have papers and projects instead of a final examination.

What do you enjoy most about your position at Charter Oak State College?

I enjoy the challenge of developing new ways of serving adult students at a distance without losing the personal touch which is one of our strengths.

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through Charter Oak State College, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Shirley, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!

Barry Pasternack, chair of the Department of Information Systems and Decision Sciences at California State University Fullerton joins us to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at California State University Fullerton.

CSU Fullerton currently offers three on-line Masters degree programs – MS in Instructional Design and Technology, MS in Software Engineering, and MS in Information Technology.   We also offer numerous individual courses in a distance learning format.  Information on distance learning programs offered by all campuses of the California State University can be found by clicking here. 

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

Each of the three programs lasts approximately 20 months.

What would you say makes California State University Fullerton programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

First would be the cost.  Currently the cost for the entire degree, excluding course materials (e.g. texts) is under $8,000.  Second is the quality of our faculty and their experience in delivering distance learning courses.  For example, faculty members in my department have been offering courses in an on-line format since 1999.  Third, is the accessibility of our faculty.  Fourth is the fact that the degree is from Cal State University, Fullerton, one of the three largest public universities (in terms of student enrollment) in California with over 180,000 graduates in our 50 year history.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Extremely important.  Our programs were all reviewed and approved by our regional accreditation agency, WASC, and are reviewed under the same rules and procedures as regular degree programs.

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does California State University Fullerton take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

All our on-line degrees have assessment plans built into their programs.  In cases where the same course is taught in both a traditional and distance learning format similar exams and projects are given in both courses.  In the MS in Information Technology degree program we require the students to come to campus on weekends to take their exams or to arrange to take their exams at a secure testing facility.  The on-line degree programs have faculty oversight groups, part of whose job it is to ensure educational quality. 

What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom?

Perhaps the major advantage is that the student does not have to travel to campus to take classes.  In the southern California area commuting times during rush hour can be brutal, with the result that a Masters degree taught in a traditional format may not be feasible for certain individuals.  For these students an on-line format may be the only realistic way they can pursue a degree.  A second advantage is the student is, to a greater extent, more invested in their learning.  The flip side of this, however, is that the student has to have the maturity and motivation to complete the courses without there being the requirement of class meetings to attend.

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

Yes, we have both a campus internship office and departments have internship coordinators.  I should point out that this has not really been an issue as the vast majority of the students in the on-line Masters degree programs already have jobs.

Does California State University Fullerton offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

Yes.  We do have a Career Development Center that students can use to help find jobs.  Again, this is probably not used to a great extent because the students in our on-line programs are generally already employed.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

Yes.  We have a number of scholarships available for students as well as normal need based financial aid programs available through the state of California.

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

Students should ask themselves if they are “self starters” who can work in a somewhat unstructured setting.  Probably more importantly, they should ask themselves if this is a subject they are interested in studying.

What do you enjoy most about your position at California State University Fullerton?

I enjoy the collegiality of the university and the fact that faculty have a great deal of freedom to select activities to be involved with.  As a department chair I have greatly enjoyed working with students as well as faculty colleagues, staff, and administrators. 

To Request more information about the distance learning programs available through California State University - Fullerton, Go here to visit them online.

Thank you Barry, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!

Arthur J. Acton, Ph.D., Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs, Extended Programs, Clarion University of Pennsylvania joins us today to discuss distance education.

Tell us about the distance learning programs offered at Clarion University of Pennsylvania.

Clarion University offers eleven certificate, associate, bachelors and masters degrees fully on-line.  These include certificates in education; associate degrees in arts and sciences and early childhood; bachelors degrees in liberal studies and nursing (degree completion program); and masters degrees in Library Science, Nursing, Rehabilitative Sciences, Business Administration and Mass Media Arts and Journalism.   

What is the typical duration of each of your programs?

The duration depends upon the degree level and whether the student goes full time or part time. The certificates take about a year, the associate degrees 2-4 years, bachelor’s degree 4-6 years and the masters degree 1-2 years.

How important would you say accreditation is when choosing an online college?

Accreditation by one of the federally approved regional accrediting agencies assures a standard of quality recognized throughout the academic world.  It is also recognized by prospective employers as a mark of academic integrity.  If the student needs to transfer coursework from an accredited college, it almost guarantees acceptance.

What would you say makes Clarion University of Pennsylvania programs different and better than other comparable online programs?

In addition to regional Middles States accreditation, Clarion University has 22 national accreditations for its various programs.  The on-line programs share these accreditations including accreditations by AACSB International–The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, The American Library Association (ALA), The Association for Childhood Education International (ACEI), The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), The National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), The National Council for Social Studies (NCSS), The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE), The National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and The National League of Nursing (NLN)

There is some debate as to whether or not online degrees are as worthwhile as traditional degrees. What steps does Clarion University of Pennsylvania take to ensure that online students are receiving the same education that they’d receive in a classroom?

The courses required to support these degrees meet the same curricular and instructional standards as classes delivered on campus and are taught by the same faculty currently teaching in the traditional classrooms.  As a result, the degrees earned online offer the same quality and accreditation as a degree earned through the university’s traditional on-campus programs. 
 
What would you say are some of the benefits of earning a degree online rather than in a traditional classroom? 

Online programs offer students scheduling flexibility to enable them to plan their educational program around work, family or other responsibilities.  They also enable students who are in geographically remote areas or place bound to obtain a college degree. 

If a student enrolled in one of your programs was interested in finding an internship in their field in their area, do you have any means of assisting them in acquiring an internship position?

Students in the various programs have opportunities for internships or other applied practical experiences including nursing clinical and student teaching assignments.

Does Clarion University of Pennsylvania offer any job placement services to your students and graduates?

The University provides job placement services for all its students and distance education students are eligible for that service.

Is financial aid available to students in your programs?

As a state university, tuition rates at Clarion are very competitive. The university provides limited financial aid for online students, but tuition is discounted for non-Pennsylvania residents to 102% of the rate that Pennsylvania residents pay.  Students are eligible in most cases for state and federal aid and some specific programs, like nursing and early childhood, have external aid programs to assist students. 

Do you have any advice for students enrolling in online classes for the first time?

Online learning is a different learning environment from a traditional on-campus experience, but students should understand that faculty have the same expectations of them as in their other classes.  Students need to allow as much study and preparation time for an on-line class as they would for an on-campus class. Even though they are not attending a class in person at a specific time and place where regular attendance is required, they still need to “attend” the online class and be active participants.  If you don’t participate, the instructor doesn’t know that you are there.  As a result, online students need to be more self-disciplined and motivated.  

What do you enjoy most about your position at Clarion University of Pennsylvania?

I have enjoyed being on this new frontier of higher education.  Over the last 10 years in distance education I have seen a program with only one or two classes and a handful of students blossom into a broad program engaging a myriad of faculty and enrolling thousands of students. At the same time the pace of technological change and innovation in distance education has been almost mindboggling.  It has been an exciting challenge to work to be sure that Clarion University remains at the cutting edge of online education.

To request more information on distance learning programs at Clarion University of Pennsylvania, go here to visit them online. 

Thank you Arthur, for sharing and participating in this piece for Online Degrees 2.0

That concludes our interview!