The cyberspace waiting list makes it clear that online education is here to stay. The newest format of the health arts program is faculty-directed instruction, similar to correspondence courses but focused on the relationship between he instructor and student. In the program's first semester, students from 23 states applied. Each year, the university offers trips in the United States and abroad. An instructor accompanies the excursion, and prior to the trip, reading and writing assignments are given.
Students keep a journal during the trip and complete assignments once the class returns.
The university continually works to ensure quality educational experiences for its distance learning students, including personal contact with instructors, no matter what the delivery format. Online classes are limited to 20 students. Some instructors encourage students to send in photos, via cyberspace to the entire class to provide a face with the name. The faculty-directed study option is another program for students who aren't as comfortable with computer technology or who don't have access to the Internet. This option builds on the College of Health Arts' successful tutorial offerings, says Marsha McCormick, MEd, MBA, and associate dean.