ADVISORY/Experts Available To Discuss Increased Popularity of Distance Learning.

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ADVISORY...

--(BUSINESS WIRE)

TOPIC: A study conducted by the Department of Education found enrollment in college-level distance learning courses increased from 1.3 million in 1997-98 to 2.9 million in 2000-01, according to an article by The Associated Press. The study is a result from a survey given to 1,600 U.S. degree-granting schools in 2002. Distance learning courses are taught online or are given remotely via audio or video feeds.

EXPERTS: ExpertSource can offer several highly qualified experts to comment on this story:

Merle Giles joined the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as Director of its Executive MBA Program in 1996. During his first year as director, he established a distance learning operation in the Chicago area via video conferencing, thereby linking remote participants to the program's class on campus. Facilities are now located at the Illini Center on Wacker Drive and communication is accomplished via high-speed connections for synchronous video and Internet. Digital tools have been utilized to accomplish virtual meetings, both in the classroom and with student study groups in the field. PR: Christy Frederick 773-325-1539 [e-mail]

Dr. Pamela Pease serves as the President of Jones International University. In this capacity, she is responsible for overseeing the strategic and academic aspects of the university. Under her leadership, in March 1999, the university became the first fully online university to receive regional accreditation. In 1999, she was awarded United States Distance Learning Association's (USDLA), Most Outstanding Achievement by an Individual in Higher Education. She serves as a member on several boards and commissions including: the United States Distance Learning Association, Oklahoma State University's Institute for Telecommunications; and the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD), and the National Governor's Association Commission on Technology and Adult Learning. Prior to her appointment as President, she served as Vice President of Academic Programs for Jones International University. In this capacity, Dr. Pease developed the innovative instructional web-based model. PR: Linda Miller 978-474-1900 [e-mail]

Professor Kevin Meehan, of the University of Central Florida, English Department, is an expert regarding education/learning technologies, distance learning and curriculum development. 407-823-2212

ExpertSource cannot guarantee the immediate availability of these experts or their familiarity with this specific issue.

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