Distance education (online learning, e-learning, virtual education, etc.) is the method of teaching when the student and instructor are separated by time, space, or both.
To become more fully compliant to Higher Learning Commission best practices for distance learning, and to provide appropriate institution-wide oversight of existing and proposed degree and certificate programs, the university has established a Distance Learning Council (DLC).
The role of the Distance Learning Council is to provide a review and approval mechanism for proposed online and distance programs. Like the Undergraduate Council and the Graduate Council, the Distance Learning Council serves as a means for review and approval of new certificate and degree programs, but confining its scrutiny to the aspects of the program that involve distance learning.
Any program that provides an opportunity to earn the majority of the degree online must be reviewed by the Distance Learning Council. For more information about the Distance Learning Council, please visit the DLC portfolio at: http://portfolio.du.edu/dlc
To effectively deliver a distance course requires more than simply posting a syllabus, reading assignments, videos of lectures, and/or exams on a web site. Careful attention to course design is required to improve student engagement, learning, and retention in online courses. The CTL provides training and support to faculty and departments who are currently involved in, or considering implementing distance education courses at the University of Denver.
Members of the CTL are available to assist DU faculty with course design, teaching strategies, and large and small questions or concerns related to distance education teaching. Please contact us to arrange an appointment.
The CTL offers periodic course reveiws for online courses. Course reviews follow an evaluation rubric covering course design, interaction, assessment, and learner support. Instructors also have the option of meeting with CTL staff to discuss ideas and suggestions.
CTL staff facilitate online Distance Learning Workshops for instructors new to teaching online. The workshops are delivered entirely online and instructors experience distance learning first-hand from the student perspective. Learn more...
A great article about web-based teaching: An absolutely riveting online course: Nine principles for excellence in web-based teaching.
For more information, contact Kathy Keairns.
