Foundations of Distance Education & E-learning
OMDE 601 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: A study of the history and evolution of distance education. Social and political/economic factors, theories, learning and teaching models, technology and media innovations, institutions and systems, and major writers that have shaped the development of the field are critically examined. A variety of technologies are used to support the development of foundational skills that are integral to current practice.
Technology in Distance Education & E-learning
OMDE 603 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisites: OMDE 601 and OMDE 610. A review of the history and the terminology of technology used in distance education. The basic technology building blocks of hardware, networks, and software are identified. Analysis covers the characteristics of asynchronous and synchronous technologies and tools used in the teaching and learning, as well as the administration, of distance education. The relationship between technology and the goals of the educational/training organization are critically examined. The relationship between information technology (especially online technology) and distance education is explored. Topics include the criteria and guidelines for selecting technologies for distance education and the future directions of technology in distance education.
Costs and Economics of Distance Education & E-learning
OMDE 606 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisites: OMDE 603 and OMDE 608.A study of the economics of distance education in the larger context of the economics of education. A variety of methodological approaches (including cost/benefit and cost/effectiveness analyses) are applied to the distance education context. A variety of costing techniques and economic models are explored and applied to different institutional forms and levels of distance education.
Learner Support in Distance Education and Training
OMDE 608 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: An introduction to the theories and concepts of support for learners in distance education and training. Various types of learner support, including tutoring and teaching; advising and counseling; and library, registrar, and other administrative services, are examined. Discussion addresses management issues, such as planning, organizational models, staffing and staff development, designing services to meet learner needs, serving special groups, and evaluation and applied research.
Teaching and Learning in Online Distance Education
OMDE 610 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: An exploration of the online teaching and learning dynamic, including its theoretical foundation and best practices. The themes that shape the online teaching/learning relationship are addressed through individual and collaborative projects. Topics include philosophical frameworks; instructional, social, and cognitive presence; interaction, collaboration, and participation; community and engagement; and administration and management.
Portfolio and Research Project in Distance Education and E-Learning
OMDE 670 | 3 Credits
Course Desc: Prerequisites: DEPM 604 and DETT 621. A capstone study of distance education and training designed to demonstrate cumulative knowledge and skills through two major projects: an electronic portfolio and a case study. The personal e-portfolio documents credentials and accomplishments to date and also serves as an ongoing resource and record of continuing professional development. The case study, which focuses on a distance education/training program or organization, involves in-depth analysis of the setting and application of concepts and strategies to enhance practice and performance in distance education and training.
