Distance Education

Distance Education can broadly be defined as educational or instructional programming transmitted to one or several remote locations. Similar to a videoconference, the transmission is a two-way event, with all participating sites able to see and hear each other. Hundreds of classes have been presented by distance education and many Central Washington University students have earned their degrees and valuable insights through this medium. Helping you reach your educational goals while you are unable to come to the Ellensburg Campus is the focus of Distance Education at Central Washington University.

Is Distance Education Effective?

Educators and students often ask if Distance Education students learn as much as students receiving "traditional" methods of instruction. Research comparing Distance Ed to traditional instruction shows that, when the methods and technologies are used appropriately, Distance Ed students can learn just as effectively. The key to a successful DE class is good planning, participation and flexiblity from the Instructor, the students and the DE operators.

Advantages of Distance Education

Many Instructors feel that the advantages and opportunities offered by Distance Education far outweigh the obstacles. In fact, some Instructors believe that the focused preparation required by distance teaching improves their overall teaching methods. Some of the advantages include:

• Reaching a wider student audience
• Allows students to take classes who wouldn't normally be able to attend
• The ability to present outside speakers from various locations
• Allows students from various locations to be linked into a "virtual classroom"
• Usage of multimedia equipment otherwise unavailable

Feel free to browse our CWU Distance Education website. If you have any questions or concerns please call the Multimedia Technology and Instructional Support office at 963-1221.