Distance Learning Leader

Certificate Program

THEME: The Distance Learning Leader Certificate Program provides leaders responsible for directing the overall distance education and training initiative with critical skills needed to succeed, including establishing strategic direction, procurement, implementation, distance learning management, and evaluation. The certificate program uses a blended instructional approach that includes two intensive days of on-site training followed by six weeks of instruction delivered at a distance using a variety of technologies. The foundation for the Distance Learning Leader Certificate Program will be the Visioning, Leading, Managing, Designing, and Knowing (VLMDK) taxonomy - a hierarchy of skills and competencies needed by the distance learning leader. Instructional activities will be directly linked to this taxonomy.

PRE-WORKSHOP MATERIALS: Each participant will receive a packet of materials approximately two weeks prior to the beginning of on-site training. These materials will include readings, videos, and recorded audio that provide a background and foundation for on-site training.

WORKSHOP MATERIALS: Each participant will receive a packet of materials at the beginning of on-site training. These materials will complement those sent previously and will include texts, readings, videos, handouts and other teaching materials. These materials will be used during on-site instruction.

POST WORKSHOP MATERIALS: Following onsite training, and continuing for six weeks, participants will be involved in a variety of distance education activities, including chats, threaded discussions using WebCT, and instructional email. Participants will read documents, view videos, listen to audio files and interact with other participants and instructors during this period of distance delivered instruction.

ON-SITE INSTRUCTION: A blended instructional model is used for the program. Several days of face to face instruction will be the focal point of the Distance Learning Leader Certificate Program. Experienced professionals will lead the on-site training. They will be supported by several specialists who will join the workshop using videoconferencing technology and several local experts who will participate in person.