Colby's+Context+of+the+Change

** In order to implement a change on the order of this magnitude, those who participate will need to consider the elements involved in conducting distance learning. I see three primary groups that will need to make adjustments to existing processes in order to successfully implement a distance learning program. The three groups are student, faculty and administration. The table below lists various items that each group will need to address if a distance learning program is to be successful. The items above are only a sampling of items that will need to be addressed prior and during the implementation of a distance learning program. Each item requires learning to occur within a distance learning context. For example, the infrastructure necessary for distance learning differs from traditional classroom needs like desks, whiteboards, projectors, etc… This list will continue to grow as the distance learning program is developed.
 * Learning Context of the Change
 * ** Item ** || ** Students ** || ** Faculty ** || ** Administration ** ||
 * Cost || x || || x ||
 * Technology used || x || x || x ||
 * Pedagogy || || x || ||
 * Program Structure || || x || x ||
 * Assessment || x || x || x ||
 * Impact on course communication || x || x || ||
 * Enrollment || || x || x ||
 * Infrastructure (LMS, etc…) || || || x ||
 * Support Staff || || x || x ||
 * Curriculum development || || x || ||
 * Courses Offered || || x || x ||

The context for learning is as dynamic as the distance learning program itself. The learning needs of the three groups will change according to the scope of each program, type of courses offered, and the skill set that each group comes with.

The learning needs will be address in various ways depending on the group. Administration will be guided by developed distance learning strategy. Faculty will be supported by staff designated to address distance education pedagogical needs. Students will be offered online and/or face to face orientations prior to being allowed to take part in distance education courses.