Strategy VIII
To provide access, invest in distance learning.
Distance learning is one approach to increasing the accessibility of a
University of Washington education, and increasing the impact and
visibility of the institution. Distance learning has become a more
attractive option for delivering education and will be an increasingly
important part of providing access, and of integrating the three campuses
of the University of Washington.
A mixed-model of distance learning has evolved over the years which
combines self- sustaining programs with more recent state supported
programs. Self sustaining programs have offered access to the University
for decades and include professional continuing education, life long
learning offerings and credit courses. Recently, faculty have developed
state supported graduate programs as one approach to growth and access.
The future for distance learning is promising, particularly with the
advent of the K-20 Educational Telecommunications Network, which makes
possible new partnerships in education. Many experiments are underway,
for example in connection with the Computer Science & Engineering
Professional Masters Program.
Recommendations
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Make distance learning, like evening instruction, part of the normal
responsibilities of the faculty, counted as part of the normal teaching
load, and considered like all other educational activities in the
evaluation of faculty performance.
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Continue to provide, through Computing and Communications and faculty
involvement, the technical assistance needed to develop statewide distance
learning capabilities such as the K-20 Educational Telecommunications
Network.
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Further expand our existing distance learning experiments, to gain
experience.
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Actively explore distance learning technology as a means to link the
three campuses.
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Utilize the K-20 network to build new partnerships with K-12
institutions, community and technical colleges, and other 4 year
institutions.
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As in the case of educational technology, clearly articulate the
institution's overall strategy for learning, and clearly describe our
accomplishments and experiences. Widely publicize each of these. Think
carefully about the overall role that distance learning will play at UW,
and what investments will be required. For example, will UW move
aggressively into asynchronous learning? If so, will it be at the
undergraduate degree, graduate degree, certificate, course, or module
level?
