Expanding access to higher education

A careful and deliberate approach

The conclusions drawn from the evaluation and assessment of UNC's technical readiness for e-Learning confirmed the wisdom of the University's careful and deliberate approach in developing e-Learning programs. During the past few years, there have been rapid changes and great diversity in how individual universities and state systems address e-Learning, and very few of the more aggressive and ambitious approaches have been successful. UNC, on the other hand, has evaluated each step along the way, assisted campuses where possible with technical support, and provided developmental funding for new e-Learning programs. As a result, UNC campuses have been highly successful in implementing more than 43 online programs.

UNC focused its efforts in FY2001-02 on designing a technical service model that retains campus autonomy for all e-Learning development, delivery and support while leveraging technical resources across the system. Course development, faculty support, student support, academic policies, program planning and the physical IT infrastructure responsibilities will remain with the campuses. At the system level, the Office of the President will collaborate with campuses to enhance baseline standards for campus IT infrastructures, develop new solutions for student and faculty support, and make policy changes applicable to the adoption of coordinated e-Learning.

Supporting e-Learning priorities

The Division of Information Resources supports the e-Learning program priorities established by the Division of Academic Affairs for development of new and complete programs in teacher preparation, health professions and information technology. In fulfilling this role, the Division of Information Resources provided funding for hosting services, student and faculty helpdesk support, and faculty development and training for the University-School Programs' NCTEACH and NC-RISE programs.

In addition, the Division of Information Resources provided campuses with supplemental funding for upgrading either Blackboard or WebCT course management system (CMS) licenses. The division plans to continue this support for a second year. This investment allows increased standardization of software levels and functionality within the two leading CMS tools used by all 16 campuses. When the campuses complete the implementation of these upgrades, UNC's ability to share courses and collaborate in developing and delivering e-Learning programs will increase.

On the horizon

• Addressing policy issues regarding technology fees, quality assurance and course articulation between campuses.

• Enhancing access to e-Learning programs for adult learners and other non-traditional audiences, such as the military.

  
  

• Developing shared technical support services such as helpdesks and course management system hosting.