If you are a re-entry student, a working or single mom, a family fan, a traffic-hater, a time-juggler or any other type of non-typical college student, then the Distance Learning Center might be the alternative you are looking for.
Every quarter, distance learning offers a variety of classes that can fulfill GE-requirements, help you work toward a specific degree or certificate or just satisfy your interest and academic curiosity.
The Internet and/or e-mail addicts among you might find it efficient to take an online course, since those courses already convey information through the channels they use all the time.
Those less technically inclined can sign up for a teleclass, which is a course taught live on local cable from a classroom on campus. Telecourses can be seen on videotape, local cable, and KCSM-TV.
Collaborative teleclasses are on-campus sections of teleclasses. Students go to the Distance Learning classroom and attend a class that is broadcast live on local cable TV.
Now, if you think that all it takes to succeed is either deep affection for your TV, a neat PC or a photogenic smile on camera, think again. According to the Distance Learning handbook, some students feel distance learning classes are harder and more challenging than on-campus courses. It takes self-discipline, time management and commitment.
“I needed to kick myself to get motivated. You have to want to do it, be ready for it”, says Sandra Vaverka, a re-entry student.
Students shouldn’t be discouraged, though. Those who can produce the necessary focus and drive can enjoy several benefits, such as greater independence, more flexibility and convenience.
Distance Learning classes come in handy when you find out that the on-campus sections of the class you wanted to take are all filled up. You choose where, when and how you want to learn.
Irene Bryars, a working mom and high school color guard coach, confirms that “it’s nice to fix your school schedule around other commitments.”
Taking a Distance Learning class does not automatically mean that you are putting more distance between yourself and your academic life.
English Professor Donna Dowdney says her online classes are more personal and interactive than the ones on-campus. Her students are in contact with each other and get feedback on anything they post on their forum or listserver.
Jaci Ward, dean of Distance and Extended Learning, sees great demand for and potential in distance learning and hopes to expand the classes and services offered to students.
She is working to creating strategic plans to identify the needs of the students, expand the programs and train the faculty.
She also wants to be able to offer complete course sequences and provide student support services such as an online individual education plan and online counseling.
As of now, 2,575 students of various backgrounds and ethnicity, with ages ranging from high school graduate to re-entrants in their seventies attend distance learning classes this fall.
If you think you can and want to be one of them, check out http://distance.De Anza.fhda.edu, call 408- 864-8969 or e-mail [email protected] for details
