Developing appropriate financial arrangements with faculty to develop online courses is essential. Various models to do so exist. For example, Penn State splits revenues with the faculty members who develop courses. New York University holds ownership rights for its online classes. Direct communication with students via a bulletin board, private mail, chats, etc. are very effective.
Students appreciate written comments by the instructor and their peers on work in progress.
The level of interaction between instructor and learner varies and depends on the preparation of the instructor. Greater attention is being paid to instructor training, with emphasis on learner support issues such as feedback, assignments, testing, discussions, etc. Susan Metros, director of Innovation Technology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, relates that a number of workshops are available to prepare instructors to build distance education courses. Also, ongoing assistance is provided. High Speed Connectivity is contributing to the growth of Distance Education.