2.08 Extension/ Continuing/ Distance Education Services

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to define, explain the goals of, and outline procedures for extension, continuing and distance education services.

Definitions

Extension constitutes the engagement and outreach activities of the universities by which they interact with constituent groups of the state of Iowa and throughout the country and the world.

Continuing education may include professional education programs, workshops, conferences and other credit or non-credit education.

Distance education is a formal educational process in which instruction occurs (1) when student and instructor are not in the same location, or (2) when in-person instruction is provided at off-campus locations. Distance education may employ guided independent study, or audio, video, or computer technologies. Instruction may be synchronous or asynchronous.

Chapter 2: Administrative Policies

Policy Statement and Goals

Distance education initiatives are included within the missions of the Regent Institutions and shall be undertaken to the extent that resources allow. The Regent Institutions shall seek to anticipate and respond to educational needs, especially those of individuals who may not be able to attend classes on campus. 

Programs offered by the Regent Universities shall be of high quality regardless of where offered and the methodology or technology used. Similarly, the Regent Universities shall seek to undertake high-quality cooperative and collaborative efforts with both Regent and non-Regent Institutions of higher education where such cooperation will benefit citizens.

The Regent Universities shall provide efficient and affordable extension, continuing and distance education services. The three universities shall seek to cooperate and collaborate in providing extension, continuing and distance education services.

Procedures

Extension, continuing and distance education programs and courses will be staffed and assessed in a manner comparable to on-campus programs and courses.

See Board of Regents, State of Iowa Policy Manual section 3.13 

Continuing Education and Special Programs, approved August 2014
President’s Cabinet, approved November 3, 2014
President and Executive Management Team, approved November 10, 2014