They are now older, more sophisticated in the use of technology, and have higher expectations of their education provider. Each campus will shape the provision of its academic programs and support services to meet better the diverse needs of its students and society. As the traditional student has changed, so has the definition of distance learning. Now, distance learning encompasses an array of options and technologies. If a department offers a course, option, credential, certificate, or major in a place more than 25 miles from the Fresno State campus, that is distance learning.
Distance learning involves the entire campus community.
Student Services, which includes Admissions and Records, Outreach, Financial Aid, and Services for Students with Disabilities, is now working on a model that will address the unique needs of our off-campus students. The Henry Madden Library, Kennel Bookstore, Facilities Planning, Plant Operations, ITS, and USU all have a significant role as the number of off-campus students increases. The technology used to teach via distance learning is generating new excitement as it is applied in the campus classroom as well. There are fewer discussions about all that cannot be done on distance learning and more discussions revolving around issues of quality in pedagogy through distance learning. Look to the future as we seek to include international partners like Open University, Great Britain.