These performances and exhibits provide a laboratory for students in the fine arts and a public service, but much of it is not seen beyond the walls of the institution. Academic programs in communications depend for their success on student access to media outlets, not just classroom exercises. Participation in a client or audience centered media service can provide students with actual work experience that teaches them the importance of client relationships plus the operating skills needed to be successful in the job market after graduation. Distance learning for non-traditional students, even those involved in international programs, is a clear area of enrollment and service growth for American higher education. Distance learning involves marketing, the creation of learning materials, distribution through a wide variety of technologies, and client service.
Public broadcasting has broad experience in serving non-traditional learners of all ages.
Very few people at institutions of higher education seem to be able to deal with all the opportunities involved in using technologies. It is difficult to find a technology generalist who also knows the institution. Most are advocates for a particular mode of service, like using computers or wiring campus buildings. Responsible executives need good strategic support in planning for these developments. This includes the development of programs which encourage creative work, electronic publishing, for all of the institution's clients.