For more information click here.

For more information click here.

A list of priorities is provided in the cover letter each time the University issues a request for proposals for electronic course design awards. Those priorities guide the decisions of the committee, which select the awards. Previous results can be reviewed at this link.

The University’s strategic plan discusses the role of distance learning within the section - Strategic Imperative 3: Facilitating Quality Teaching and Learning . Distance learning will “enhance the classroom experience” by offering “ distance learning to select markets and assuring high quality delivery.”

A primary target for UL Lafayette’s existing and new electronic courses is non-traditional learners, which the UL System recognizes as the new norm.  The demand and growth of e-learning nationwide has been documented by the Sloan-Consortium, whose past and most recent reports you can access at this link,

Conversely, the 21st century college student, regardless of age, wants options in taking their courses. In providing these options, the University will be better positioned to attract the adult learner market, but will also be better aligned to serve the demands of students who grew up with Internet enabled devices (laptops, cell phones, iPhones, iPads, etc.).

Receipt of an electronic course award is not the only opportunity or pathway for UL Lafayette faculty members to propose and develop electronic course offerings. The Office of Distance & Electronic Learning polices discusses the course development decisions in two ways: (a) the authority to develop courses and (b) the process for certifying the courses.

The authority to grant faculty the approval to develop electronic courses is vested with the academic department heads in collaboration with their respective dean. These academic administrators hold the power as to which courses can be offered hybrid or online. Please read the General Guidelines for Development and Delivery of a Locally Produced Electronic Courses.

In terms of the process for certifying course to be offered through the University, there are faculty preparation requirements referenced at the link above with more information found here.  Those professional development standards are desired by faculty who are serious about providing high quality electronic courses. Also, electronic courses must be designed to meet the essential standards of the Quality Matters Rubric and will need to be vetted through the approved course review process discussed at this link.

The University has articulated the following goals:

• Create college courses and programs through alternate delivery methods in order to offer educational opportunities to students unable to accommodate a traditional class schedule.
• Ensure the technology used is appropriate to the nature and objectives of the academic programs.
• Expand educational opportunities in a financially responsible manner through synchronous and asynchronous electronic learning.
• Provide technical training to university faculty in the use of e-learning instructional techniques and in the use of associated technologies.
• Facilitate student success in distance learning courses and programs by providing and promoting an environment of equal opportunity.