Quality Benchmarks for Distance Learning

More and more distance learning opportunities are becoming available via the Internet; however, the quality of the courses available and the integrity of the institutions may vary.

Be a wise Internet course consumer!

Learn about the characteristics of a quality distance learning course. The National Education Association (NEA) developed a quality checklist in 1999 and released 24 measures of quality in Internet-based distance learning in 2000. A list of benchmarks for quality distance education can be found on the NEA web site at http://www.nea.org.

Other Considerations:

Determine if a recognized national or regional accrediting body accredits the college. The accreditation information should be provided on the college's web site or in their catalog.

What does an Internet (web-based) course look like?

Courses offered through the SUNY system are presented in a number of different platforms, or formats. SLN or SUNY learning Network, Blackboard, and Web CT are the most widely used platforms. Information on each of these platforms is accessible on the net at the following addresses:

SLN: http://sln.suny.edu/
Blackboard: http://www.blackboard.com
Web CT: http://webct.com/students

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