In addition, annual events such as the RIT Productivity Grant Showcase, Online Learning Symposim and Faculty Institute on Technology provide campuswide recognition. A year ago, RIT adopted a strategic plan to grow distance learning. Funding now comes primarily from the university strategic plan. The goal is to nearly triple enrollment in distance learning programs to 10 percent of total credit hours generated by the university. Through the strategic plan, RIT is now able to pay faculty for release time for course development and to invest in up-front production rather than relying on funding from grants or the academic departments.
Seed money removes many of the barriers.
However, market competition and the drive to increase enrollment are often the motivator. The ETC program development team works with faculty, deans and department chairs to foster distance learning opportunities. They pursue new markets, develop partnerships and seek internal opportunities to grow distance learning. When internal circumstances change faculty get inspired from colleagues at other schools and at conferences. Center staff are ready to help turn these opportunities into ongoing relationships.