Principles for Development of a 21st Century Distance Learning Program on the College and University Level

Abstract

The Occupational Education program at Southwest Texas State University was established in 1973 to serve military personnel at four bases in San Antonio, Texas. During the 1980s, the program moved toward a broader clientele and has currently evolved into serving a 90 percent civilian population. In addition to shifts of population served, the program has evolved due to private college competition, employers' demands, and changes in the program focus. The program's success has rested on seven principles: 1) understand the organization's structure; 2) think “outside the box” as challenges occur; 3) select and motivate staff and faculty in change models; 4) examine underserved populations; 5) report program successes often; 6) provide alternative student support services, which complement distance learning; and 7) assure quality indicators as courses are designed. In retrospect, the principles of sound program development point toward faculty preparation and establishing obtainable goals related to distance education.