Distance Learning
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the advantages to distance learning?
Distance
learning allows professionals to juggle training along with their other
priorities. Lectures and assignments are posted to a class
web site, and students access them when it's most convenient. Traditional
classroom-based training is an example of a synchronous learning experience:
all students attend lectures and discussion groups at appointed times,
or they miss out. Our distance learning courses are asynchronous - although
there is a course schedule, there is flexibility as to when learners
participate
in course activities. Class discussions still occur, but now they occur
over a span of days or weeks. You never miss out on these discussions – they
are recorded on the web site.
Q: Can you be more specific about how a class is delivered over
the World Wide Web?
These courses are delivered over the World
Wide Web using a course management system called WebCT. A course management
system comprises an integrated
set of educational tools for constructing and managing an on-line course
environment. WebCT provides an asynchronous environment that enables
learners
to participate at their convenience while simultaneously providing an
engaging learning experience. Distance learning specialists will provide
ongoing support throughout the course.
Q: What is the difference between the JIFSAN face-to-face version
of the courses and the distance learning versions?
The course content is very similar. Both require work in small groups;
and both have similar learning objectives. The difference lies only in
the mode of delivery and the pace of the course. The conversion of our
face-to-face courses to a distance learning format has been supported
by a development grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Q: Is
your program offered in languages other than English?
A: At this time,
we are only able to offer courses in English. However, many international
participants who speak English as a second language have successfully
completed our courses.
Q: I see that the classes take place over a
3 - 8 week time period. Why does it take so long, and how much time will
I need to put into the course?
You should expect to put in a
few more hours with a distance learning course than you would with a
face-to-face course. Expect to spend 3 -5
hours a week, and to “check in” at least daily with your
team. Depending on your level of interest for a certain course, you might
spend a great deal more time. The reason the course length is 3-8 weeks
is to allow ample time to complete the course objectives while working
it into your daily routine. Many busy professionals will find themselves
traveling or unable to access the Internet for a few days during the longer courses.
This is a common occurrence and is acceptable, as long as you let your instructor and
teammates know. Some “catch-up” time with no
new assignments may be included in the longer courses.
Q: The course I want to take is described as
a "pilot course." What does this mean?
A: Pilots are being offered for the
first time. Enrolling in a pilot is very economical. We will ask you
to provide
extra feedback to the instructor and the distance learning support
specialists. Feedback may include surveys, extensive evaluations, and
post-course
followups.
Materials used in pilots have all been tested numerous times in our
face-to-face courses.
Q: Now that I’m interested, how do I convince my boss
to allow me to do this?
A: Many bosses would be swayed by the massive savings
in travel expenses. One 4 day domestic trip to Washington D.C. typically
costs about $1,000 in addition to the course fee. An international
trip may cost up to $3,000. Another argument is that you will not be
out of
the office --- you will still be at your desk and available all day.
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