Liberty University MBA goes online

Per a letter received from Liberty University today, my MBA program is set to have some major changes. Beginning January 2004:

1. Courses will transition from video format to online Blackboard format (students will have the option of continuing with video format until December 2004, at which time the video format will no longer be available.

2. Change from a 16-week term to a 8 week term.

3. The use of proctors will be eliminated. All testing will be totally online.

4. Courses will consist of up to 20 students who will be required to interact with the professor and other students on a weekly basis.

I hate change. One of Liberty's major pluses, in my case, is that it did not necessarily require reliable connectivity and was totally asynchronous. The transition to Blackboard may cause some additional challenges when I'm at sea. I'm pretty sure I will be accommodated if problems arise, but with the video lecture/proctored exam/assignment format I never had to ask for special accommodation.

I was comfortable with the 16-week terms. I have been able to complete my assignments and prepare for exams without feeling significant pressure.

I think the student/professor/student interaction is probably a good thing.

And of course they had to wait until I became an advocate of proctored exams before they eliminated our proctored exams. I wish they would have asked Professor Kennedy before making this decision.

In fairness, Liberty University did send out a couple of surveys last year in regards to what were proposed changes at the time. Apparently my preferences were among the minority. Anyway, since I'm about half way there, I will embrace the change and like it.

 

I had looked into the Liberty U MBA program before, and remember getting the impression that they take great pride in the fact that they cater to the needs of military personnel. One would hope that they could make reasonable accommodations for sailors under way.

 

Will you be able to finish before 12/04?

 

Yes. I should be able to finish before December 2004 so long as I stay focused.