Global Campus Celebrates Distance Learning Week

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – The University of Arkansas Global Campus is celebrating National Distance Learning Week Nov. 9-13 to recognize the growth of distance learning in Arkansas and nationwide.

The University of Arkansas joins colleges, schools and other organizations across the country in showcasing distance education programs during National Distance Learning Week, sponsored by the United States Distance Learning Association.

More than 3.5 million college students are taking online courses or earning online college degrees, according to the association.

Distance learning offerings at the Global Campus continue to grow. Class sections that support degree-completion programs in elementary education and general business at the Rogers facility doubled from fall 2008 to fall 2009, adding more class sections from the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences to those offered by the College of Education and Health Professions and the Sam M. Walton College of Business. A total of 27 sections were offered in Rogers in fall 2009, and even more are planned for 2010. Off-campus enrollment increased by more than 30 percent from fall 2008 to fall 2009.

The Global Campus also administers distance education degree programs and more than 125 online or print-based independent study courses.

“We are delighted to see the steady increase in distance education offerings at the University of Arkansas,” said Sharon L. Gaber, provost of the university. “By expanding our distance education offerings, we are putting students first, especially those who have barriers to completing a degree such as geographical distance or personal obligations that prevent on-campus participation.”

The Global Campus invites the public to learn more about current distance learning offerings at the University of Arkansas by visiting its newly redesigned Web site.

The United States Distance Learning Association also offers free online seminars during the week-long event.