12/14/99
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio University has expanded its distance learning capabilities with the advent of OhioLEARNS!, a World Wide Web catalog of distance-learning courses offered through the Ohio Learning Network.
The Web-based catalog, produced by a statewide consortium of 55 public and independent colleges and universities in Ohio, was activated today in Columbus. Ohio University is offering 25 courses through the catalog, including bioethics, geography, mathematics and accounting. With a click of a computer mouse, browsers can review course offerings, order textbooks and enroll in classes.
"This collection of courses is a great way for Ohioans to access higher education opportunities," said Roderick G.W. Chu, Ohio Board of Regents chancellor, who officially launched the catalog at a Columbus ceremony.
"As we enter the 21st century and face the reality of a knowledge-based economy, the dream of access becomes a dream of providing high-quality educational experiences to any learner -- anytime, anywhere. Working adults often need a course to fit their hectic schedules and distance learning courses, in particular Web-based courses, offer that flexibility."
Sharon Brehm, chair of the OLN Governing Board and provost at Ohio University, said the project will open up opportunities for students of all ages.
"This is the most far-reaching project I have been involved with in terms of its impact on the state and all its citizens," Brehm said. "Ohio did not need any new entity to offer degrees. Ohioans do need more access to higher education. OhioLEARNS! is our latest strategy to meet learners' needs."
The Web site provides distance learning specialists at host campuses across Ohio to answer questions and to help students find courses and degree programs. To contact a distance learning specialist or find out more information about distance education resources, visit the OLN Web site at http://www.oln.org
Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, Ohio University's Independent Study Program has been a pioneer in offering college courses to students living around the world. The program allows students to take correspondence courses and submit their assignments to an instructor by mail and, more recently, by e-mail. Another option, course credit by exam, allows students to take Ohio University-supervised tests at other accredited colleges, universities or high schools.