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Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Monday, July 14, 2008
2008 National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) will be held November 10-14, 2008
National Distance Learning Week 2008 is coming, and we wanted to take a moment to encourage your participation to promote and celebrate the tremendous growth and accomplishments occurring today in distance learning programs.
Sponsored by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), (www.usdla.org) the 2008 National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) will be held November 10-14, 2008. During this time, schools, colleges, businesses and other organizations will highlight their offerings for current and prospective students and educators. Additionally, the USDLA will conduct a series of free webinars during National Distance Learning Week, educating their constituents on the latest happenings in distance learning.
The purpose of National Distance Learning Week is to generate greater awareness and appreciation for distance learning, including K-12, Higher Education, Corporate and Military, while recognizing leaders and best practices in the field. Therefore, we urge you to conduct local or national events during this time—whether you are a professional engaged in the day-to-day practice of distance learning, or an individual or organization that provides products and services being distributed via the Internet, video conferencing, or satellite technologies.
“[Distance] learning programs are invaluable because they provide a segment of our population with critical literacy and job-related skills as well as the means to take their careers to the next level,” said Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee.
There are a variety of ways to participate in National Distance Learning Week, from hosting a distance learning webinar to donating computers to educational facilities. Here is just a short list of ideas:
- Provide a link from your website, wiki or blog to the NDLW site (download a logo at http://www.ndlw.org/media.html )
- Send an email to your communities inviting them to the NDLW site or to your own NDLW promotional event
- Help your clients to host an NDLW event within or outside their organization for educational outreach
- Participate in one of our live webinars (http://www.ndlw.org/learners.html )
- Launch new products and services during NDLW
- Provide content/giveaways for the NDLW website that promotes distance learning awareness in some way. Although content may be branded, please ensure that it is educational/informative in nature and not overly marketing oriented.
For additional ideas, more information, or press materials, visit www.ndlw.org. If you are interested, in providing content for the NDLW site or have any questions, please contact Dr. Ken Hartman at kenhartman@drexel.edu.
Monday, May 05, 2008
USDLA 2008 International Awards Presented For Excellence in Distance Learning for Individuals, Organizations and Companies Honoring their Outstanding Achievements.
World's most prestigious distance learning awards were presented yesterday in
These prestigious International Awards are presented annually to organizations and individuals engaged in the development and delivery of distance learning programs. Included in the recognition ceremony were awards for 21st Century Best Practice, Best Practice for Distance Learning Programming, Excellence in Distance Learning Teaching, Outstanding Leadership by an Individual, Hall of Fame and Eagle Awards.
The USDLA International Awards are closely followed by the distance learning industry. "As a premier organization for the entire distance learning profession, we enjoy honoring some of the leaders in the industry," said Dr. John G. Flores, CEO of USDLA. "Each year these winners raise the bar and exceed best practice expectations for the industry as a whole and we are truly honored by their contributions to the distance learning industry."
The USDLA Awards were created to acknowledge major accomplishments in distance learning and to highlight those distance learning instructors, programs, and professionals who have achieved and demonstrated extraordinary results through the use of online, videoconferencing, satellite and blended learning delivery technologies. In addition, winners will be recognized in an edition of USDLA’s Distance Learning Today quarterly supplement. Distance Learning Today appears in
For the 2008 International Awards program, USDLA focused upon several major areas that exemplifies the dynamic nature of distance learning. Please join us in honoring the following 2008 USDLA Award Winners, which include the following:
Best Practices Awards for Distance Learning Programming
PLATINUM
Quantum Simulations, Inc.
Online Technology ~ Pre K-12
A World of Difference Institute, Making Diversity Count
Online Technology ~ Organization
UNCG Division of Continual Learning Online Development Team
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Elementary Spanish – Step I, BJ HOMESAT
Video/Satellite ~ K-12-Homeschooling
GOLD
The Graphic Design Master’s Certificate Program, Sessions Online Schools of Art and Design
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
The Colonial
Online Technology ~ Pre K - 12
SILVER
The National Nurse Emergency Preparedness Initiative, J. Johnson,
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Connect for Education, Inc.
Online Technology ~ Pre K – 12
Online Technology ~ Pre K – 12
1st Grade Phonics and
Video/Satellite ~ K-12-Homeschooling
Virtual High School Global Consortium
Online Technology ~ K-12
Athena Action in Education
Video Conferencing ~ Pre K – 12
BRONZE
Arkansas Department of
Video Conferencing ~ Pre K - 12
Center for Development of Human Services and OCFS Bureau of Training
Online Technology ~ Government
TRC Interactive, Inc.
Online Technology ~ Corporation
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Dr. Samuel B. Slike and Pamela D. Berman,
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Best Practices Awards for Excellence in Distance Learning Teaching
PLATINUM
Professor Debra J. Dewitte,
Online Technology – Higher Education
Tony Duncan
Video Conferencing ~ Pre K-12
Tom Young, iQ Academy Wisconsin
Online Technology ~ Pre K-12
GOLD
Cynthia D. Green
Video Conferencing ~ Pre K - 12
Dr. Margaret Riel
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Gabriela Hogue, ODE Spanish Instructor
Video Conferencing ~ Pre K - 12
Dr. Patricia McGee
Online Technology ~ Higher Education
SILVER
Diane Zorn, Course Director, Philosophy Program,
Online Technology ~ Higher ED
Outstanding Leadership by an Individual in the Field of Distance Learning
Gail Wheatley - Video Conferencing ~ Pre K - 12
Dr. Kenneth E. Hartman - Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Keith Oelrich - Online Technology~ Pre K-12
Marilyn Mosley Gordanier - Online Technology ~ Pre K-12
Lance Ford - Video Conferencing ~ Pre K-12
Dr. Janet Schnitz - Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Janine Lim - Video Conferencing ~ Pre K-12
Dr. Ron Legon - Online Technology ~ Higher Education
Anton Leof - Online Technology ~ Pre K-12
Chris Robbins - Video Conferencing ~ Pre K-12
Francisco Antonio Soeltl - E-Learning Brasil President and CEO - Country Leadership in Distance Learning Implementation ~ Private Sector
Dr. Thomas Kenan Miller III - Online Technology ~ Higher Education
21st Century Awards for Best Practices in Distance Learning
C2 Technologies, Inc. - Blended Learning ~ Corporation
Virtual High School Global Consortium - Online Technology ~ Pre K - 12
Webcampus at Stevens Institute of Technology - Online Technology ~ Higher Education
7city Learning - Online Technology ~ Corporation
Joint Knowledge Development and Distribution Capability’s Joint Knowledge Online - Online Technology ~ Government / Military
Army Distributed Learning System - Online Technology ~ Government / Military
USDLA 2008 HALL OF FAME
Elliott Masie, Founder and President, The MASIE Center in
USDLA 2008 EAGLE AWARD
The Eagle Award was presented by USDLA to a nationally recognized public official that demonstrated unique leadership in distance learning. This year USDLA recognized Florida Senator Daniel Webster for his commitment to providing greater educational opportunities in his state by means of distance learning technology and especially his support of the
Mr. Reggie Smith III, USDLA board member and chair of the awards committee, noted that, “Once again this year’s award winners represent many of the most innovative leaders in the field of distance learning.” He continued, “We look forward to seeing how these leaders will inspire the 2009 award entries as they are recognized in Distance Learning Today to 3.5 million readers and via their participation in National Distance Learning Week ( http://www.ndlw.org ), November 10-14, 2008.”
NEW: DISTANCE LEARNING 2012 STUDY
Prospective students are looking for institutions that offer high quality education delivered whenever and wherever they need it. As the potential number of students increases within the various markets, institutions must be on the forefront of providing distance education to multiple audiences. Figure 1 shows the potential audiences and the multiple ways learning can be delivered.
With the continued growth of organizations offering quality online education programs, only those institutions that offer desirable programs will be thriving in the future.
The pioneers in distance education were remarkably successful by simply providing basic courses. The quality of the courses and faculty has always been as important as classes being available in a forum that was convenient to the students. The marketplace for distance learning has evolved and now schools must be recognized leaders in the field to prosper in the next decade. For a promising future in distance education, organizations will require expertise in marketing as well as large financial investments in technology, course development and faculty. Are you prepared to ensure success as students’ demands shift in distance education?
The Distance Learning 2012 Study will examine the necessary steps to ensure success into the next decade. This report will provide universities and corporations with data-driven insight and strategic recommendations on opportunities in the growing distance learning market. The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) and The Hale Group have assembled a group of highly regarded experts in the field of distance learning to address this growing phenomenon of students pursuing nontraditional methods of learning. This study will answer several key questions, laying a framework for future success.
Some of the key questions that will be addressed in the Distance Learning 2012 Study include:
1. How should your institution be positioned for a possible decline in the student population?
2. What are the keys to expanding an existing distance learning program beyond the current geography?
3. How will future advances in technology change the options in which students learn?
4. What will the future impact of government policy be on the distance learning community?
5. What are the current business models in distance education and how successful will they be over the next five years?
The future of distance education is continuing to evolve and institutions must develop “out-of-the-box” opportunities for continued growth in revenue and student enrollment. The Distance Learning 2012 Study will evaluate the necessary steps for institutions and corporations to capitalize on students shifting away from traditional learning environments into avenues that provide convenience and flexibility.
For more information visit: http://www.distancelearning2012.com/
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Thursday, September 20, 2007
USDLA Launches National Distance Learning Week to Increase the Awareness of Distance Learning
For immediate release Contact:
1.215.895.0513 (ph)
1.215.850.6252 (cell)
“[Distance] learning programs are invaluable because they provide a segment of our population with critical literacy and job-related skills as well as the means to take their careers to the next level,” said Senator Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions committee. “It is important that people have a greater awareness and appreciation for distance learning.”
The appointed 15 member USDLA national committee for NDLW is made up of representatives from various constituencies, including university and K-12 educators, corporations, military and government representatives, home schooling administrators, and media professionals. These members were chosen for their dedicated work in their professions and the field of distance learning. The committee members will work to promote the awareness of distance learning within their organizations and communities.
Dr. Kenneth E. Hartman, Academic Director for Drexel University Online will serve as the national committee chairman. “I am honored to take on such an important project. Our goal is to educate the public on the exciting and ground breaking events occurring each day in distance learning”, says Dr. Hartman. “Millions of students and workers go online each day to learn new concepts and we want to share their stories and advice.”
USDLA defines distance learning as the acquisition of knowledge and skills through mediated information and instruction, encompassing all technologies and other forms of learning at a distance. This week-long event will also be publicized in “Distance Learning Today," a USDLA sponsored quarterly supplement in
“It is with enthusiasm and excitement that USDLA launches National Distance Learning Week, November 12 – 16. The Association invites you to join us at www.ndlw.org for webinars and information on all aspects of the distance learning industry,” commented Dr. John G. Flores, CEO of the USDLA (www.usdla.org).
The world of learning is changing. Distance learning is a multi-billion dollar enterprise and the fastest growing segment of the education market. Commercial and government markets around the world recognize how distance learning, education and training makes a strategic contribution to achieving organizational performance objectives, leveraging talent and resources, and implementing and preserving institutional knowledge. “Employers increasingly cite distance learning as a key to increased employee satisfaction and retention and expect the role of distance learning to increase in their organizations within the next two or three years” says Dr. Hartman.
For more information regarding NDLW, contact Dr. Kenneth Hartman, national committee chair, at 1.215.895.0501 or visit www.ndlw.org
For more information on advertising opportunities in the November 9 Issue of Distance Learning Today – close is September 25, contact Marilyn Maccio at 1.800.915.6877 or sosmaccio@optonline.net.
Friday, August 03, 2007
3RD EDITION OF DISTANCE LEARNING TODAY AVAILABLE TODAY!
A Perfect Environment to Promote Your Distance Learning Program
Today, August 3rd, the third successful issue of Distance Learning Today will reach a total of 3.3 million readers in major, selected markets of
The 4th issue of Distance Learning Today is scheduled for Friday, November 9th. It will be packed with useful, informative articles and is the perfect vehicle for you to extol the benefits of your distance learning program. The advertising space close is September 25th.
Distance Learning Today, sponsored by the United States Distance Learning Association, is a 16-page, four-color advertorial that makes potential consumers aware of the fast-growing phenomena of online learning. The publication tells them how to take advantage of online courses and degree programs that can turbocharge their careers. It is the only publication that reaches such a large audience of potential users.
If you want to be part of Distance Learning Today and reap the benefits in the November issue or throughout 2008, please call Marilyn Maccio @ 1-800-915-6877 or mmaccio@suburbanoffice.com
Download your copy of Distance Learning Today (Click Here)http://www.usdla.org/pdf/DLT_August2007.pdf
"NEW" International Center for Distance Learning Research and Praxis
announce the creation of
The International Center for Distance Learning Research and Praxis:
Strengthening and promoting education practitioners worldwide through research on Distance Learning
Background
Our global borders are quickly vanishing. People of diverse cultures, genders, nationalities, and age groups abound. Even in the midst of this global shift, education remains the most powerful platform to progress in our “flat world”. Distance learning opens the opportunities to obtain education without the constraints of location and time. It is the national skill needed in the 21st century.
Purpose
The International Center for Distance Learning Research and Praxis is a practitioner’s resource for Distance Learning research and its influence on Pre-K through Grade 12, higher education, home school, continuing education, corporate training, military and government training, and telemedicine. The focus of the Center is on research to guide the development of policy and application for distance learning. It strengthens the connections between education research and the worlds of policy and practice in Distance Learning. The Center examines and supports Distance Learning programs and serves as a conduit for transferring knowledge and solutions to solve global problems and launch international initiatives. By serving as a repository for best practices and by engaging successful practitioners in distance learning ventures, the Center seeks to advance education and lifelong learning using effective distance learning to achieve positive results.
Location
The Center is located at the Fischler School of Education and Human Services (FSEHS), Nova Southeastern University (NSU), 1750 NE 167th Street in North Miami Beach, FL and at the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) Building at 8 Winter Street, Suite 508 in Boston, MA. The Center is operated through a joint partnership between NSU-FSEHS and the USDLA. This joint partnership affords an established reputation that bridges numerous programs of postgraduate study in the fields of education and related human services from NSU-FSEHS with the well-respected independent work drawing from USDLA’s distinguished board and advisory members.
Activities
The Center conducts original research, undertakes evaluation and training consultancies, publishes reviews and summaries, and engages in professional development activities related to Distance Learning. The research scope is broad and far-reaching ranging from learning and teaching application, financial and issues of access, the strategic use of technology in distance learning settings, and other factors that may influence distance education. These activities contribute to setting the research agenda particularly in relation to basic education, teacher training and higher education.
Contact USDLA for more information at 1.800.275.5162.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
The 3rd Annual International Forum for Women in E-Learning (IFWE) event, hosted by the United States Distance Learning Association, from November 28-30, 2007 is the premier event for women in the distance learning industry. This year's high-profile leadership forum promises to deliver an action-packed agenda that will reach out to the needs of women across multiple distance learning disciplines.IFWE is an opportunity to share ideas, learn about distance learning programs and products, gain a better understanding of being a leader in the field. It provides participants with a wonderful opportunity to establish new relationships and contacts with others involved in distance learning. The format of the event allows attendees to learn about relevant topics from many different points of view.
Registration (Click Here)
IFWE 2007 Call for Proposals (Click Here)
Become an IFWE Sponsor (Click Here)
IFWE Website (Click Here)
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