Community and Networking in DL Programs

Discussion in 'General Distance Learning Discussions' started by David Yamada, Feb 26, 2001.

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  1. David Yamada

    David Yamada New Member

    Strands of discussion in two topics, "Any Distance Learning Graduates Leaders in Their Fields?" and "The Transformative Aspects of Grad School" led me to ask:

    How can DL programs create a sense of community among their students?

    How can DL programs provide the kind of networking opportunities that are among the chief advantages of residential programs?

    Are these important considerations for DL programs, or do students enroll in them assuming that community & networking opportunities are "sacrificed" in favor of the greater flexibility and financial savings offered by DL programs?

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    David Yamada, [email protected]
     
  2. Hodge Family

    Hodge Family New Member

    When I enrolled in the M.Div. program at Liberty University, I knew that I would be sacrificing the sense of community you're talking about. Yes, the flexibility and financial savings outweigh that sacrifice.

    However, I certainly would like to have the face-to-face interaction of an in-residence program. I really feel like I'm going it alone sometimes. Unfortunately, most of the Christian ministers I know aren't interested in conversations surrounding issues of great theological importance. Their biggest issue is whether to sing "praise choruses" or traditional hymns.

    I long to be around other students who share my interests. This lack of interaction with faculty and other students is definitely the biggest drawback to distance education.



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    Have a Great Day!

    Eddie Hodge
     
  3. David Yamada

    David Yamada New Member

    Eddie, I understand where you're coming from. When I was enrolled in the M.A. program in Labor and Policy Studies at Empire State College, the periodic residencies energized and motivated me. The long stretches in between, however, despite the forging of a small number of friendships, felt like true lone wolf expeditions in area libraries.

    My traditional, residential law degree program at New York University was not notable for its teaching. Like many research-oriented schools, teaching was not the highest priority for many faculty, though there certainly were some excellent teachers. But what I got out of it in terms of lasting friendships and future contacts was invaluable.
     

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