Georgia Southern University and the Altamaha Technical Institute in Jesup will pilot a district learning network which will provide new educational opportunities to rural areas of Georgia. Equipment on loan from the Department of Administrative Services has been installed at both sites along with high speed data transmission cables between Statesboro, Savannah, and Jesup.
Future plans call for several interconnected distance learning centers.
Each location will be able to simultaneously transmit and receive live video course instruction. As a result, students in remote areas will have access to undergraduate and graduate courses otherwise not available. The distance learning network has the potential to vastly improve local education opportunities. The system will also greatly enhance the ability of rural communities to support the continuing education needs of local business and industry. Therefore, Georgia Southern University is currently seeking federal, state, and private support to fund the system on a permanent basis.