Study Launched to Benchmark Online Operations

Posted on May 14, 2008 by Jennifer Brady | Leave a Comment

Eduventures This is welcome news for all in online higher education seeking to establish best practices: a new study to provide unprecedented benchmarking data about operational issues and processes that affect online degree and certificate programs, including program marketing, curriculum and program development, academic and student support services, faculty training and development, IT support services, and enrollment management.

It is being conducted by Eduventures and The Campus Computing Project, with results expected in October, 2008. Click here to read the joint announcement about this research project.

It is good news for those of us charged with evolving the UMassOnline offering because it will provide an independent perspective about best practices today and how these are likely to evolve as our industry matures and as more choices proliferate that become harder to assess. It is good news for students because the benchmarks will likely provide some comparative data that has not been widely available. Selecting an online provider should be enhanced by this research and other projects like it. For everyone involved, I think this kind of scholarship in online education will help accelerate the development of more and better course offerings, enhanced delivery systems, and more support for everyone in the online loop, from faculty and administrators to students.

Rules of Engagement for Online Chats

Posted on May 8, 2008 by Mark Gillard | Leave a Comment

Mark Gillard, UMassOnline blogger I read a post recently on the distance learning site at about.com that had some great tips on how to participate in chats in your online classes. The writer, Jamie Littlefield, writes:

“Online chats for distance learning classes can be nerve-wracking. Students are expected to respond to instructor questions and interact with other students in the chat room, without much time to prepare responses. Unlike traditional classrooms, chat rooms don’t give you the chance to see physical cues or hear verbal inflections during a discussion. Additionally, chatters can be hampered by typing speed or poor spelling. Often, students’ grades will be determined, in part, by their chat room participation. But, never fear. There is a way to enter distance learning chat rooms with confidence and cool.”

Read the rest of the article here.

The Family that Studies Together…?

Posted on May 7, 2008 by Jennifer Brady | Leave a Comment

UMassOnline Jennifer Brady April 24th was National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work® Day. In a recent news release, eLearners.com notes that adult online learners can set an example to their kids that reinforces the experience of a day at work together.

“Parents are a powerful example for kids to follow, not only in how they interact with their co-workers and the pride they take in their job, but also in the pursuit of knowledge and education,” said Terrence Thomas, Chief Marketing Officer for eLearners.com. “Millions of parents choose online degree programs for a variety of reasons, and by doing so, parents can study right along with their children in the evenings demonstrating the importance of education and career.”

As a parent of two very young children, I can somewhat relate to this. They can’t read yet nor completely grasp what I am doing but are so inquisitive and excited to learn more. It is comforting to know that this has a measured and positive impact on children!

What I am curious to know is whether or not you have children that see you studying at night? If so, what has been their reaction to your educational pursuit? Do they ask you questions about it? Do they tell their friends that you are a college student? Do they wonder if they can study online with you, too? Do they perceive ‘homework’ or ’schoolwork’ differently as a result of you studying alongside them?