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Centers for Independent Learning
College of DuPage
(630) 942-2131
Locations
- Bloomingdale
- Glen Ellyn
- Naperville
- Westmont
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What is distance learning?
Distance learning happens when the teacher and learner are separated during at least part or all of the instructional process. Although at different locations, both the teacher and learner are connected and/or the course content is distributed through educational media.
A wide variety of communication technologies, approaches and processes may be used to supplement and enhance learning. Face-to-face interaction may also be a part of the distance learning process.
What is distance learning at College of DuPage?
Distance learning programs and support services can be found at the college’s four Centers for Independent Learning (CILs) located on campus in Glen Ellyn and at three neighborhood locations: Bloomingdale, Naperville and Westmont. These centers are committed to helping busy, self-disciplined adult learners who need a flexible and convenient learning option to the traditional classroom.
The CILs administer and deliver instruction for a wide variety of distance learning formats. Course materials are distributed by a variety of media, including printed text and study guides, video or audiotape, computer software, Internet, TV cable and radio broadcast, and interactive television. Technology also allows interaction between the student and instructor.
The CILs collectively served 25,000 enrolled students during the 2002-2003 academic year. Distance learning courses are all supported by a comprehensive offering of student services found at each of the centers.
How are distance learning courses different from regular classroom courses?
Course objectives and curriculum for C.O.D. distance learning courses are the same as those in their classroom counterparts. What’s different is the way that instruction is delivered. Most students who successfully complete distance learning courses say that independent learning is equal to or more difficult than classroom-based learning. This is because students must invest the extra time and effort necessary to essentially teach themselves. This is accomplished by using the variety of self-instructional media and print materials that have been designed to deliver the course content. These materials may include a text, study guide or course handbook, a media component and a course map outlining the sequential step-by-step use of the materials.
How are distance learning courses organized and delivered?
Course organization depends on the format and delivery method: appointment-based courses, telelearning courses, open lab math and accounting courses, group-instruction foreign language courses, and online courses. Most of these formats allow students to proceed at their own pace and test when they are prepared and ready. In some courses, students can arrange with instructors to start any time after the first week and up to the middle of the term.
What specific services do the Centers for Independent Learning (CILs) provide?
CILS offer more than 200 non-traditionally delivered college courses.
Courses are offered in a broad variety of learning and instructional formats: print, video, computer-mediated, radio and television broadcasts, CD ROM, and Internet.
Audio and video media are available for convenient checkout or full-term rental, or they can be used for study at the off-campus centers.
Assessment and Testing Lab facilities at each center allow placement testing, distance learning course testing, and both career interest and proficiency testing. Most courses are supported by PAR Testing (computer-based course testing and scoring). Academic skills courses help students refresh or develop their reading, math, writing or study skills. Students may also prepare for the GED at the off-campus centers. Each center is equipped with voice-mail, e-mail and fax to support interaction at a distance between the student and instructor.
How can I determine if distance learning courses are a good choice for me?
Students can easily succeed in a distance learning class:
• By using a self-directed style
• By having a sincere desire to learn independently with consistent self-motivation
• By maintaining self-discipline and avoiding procrastination
• By communicating effectively with instructors and fulfilling course requirements in a timely manner
Distance learning students need to be self-directed and self-motivated in their approach to learning, and they must possess effective study skills and habits. As a student consumer, you are encouraged to contact one of the instructors (by calling any of the CILs) and talk about course expectations and what’s needed for successful course completion. You can also view a check list that will help you determine if this is the right choice for you.
What types of students take distance learning courses?
Many CIL students enroll out of necessity due to their busy work schedules and family or community responsibilities. Other students enjoy learning independently, have the ability to take control of their own learning, and are attracted to the flexibility and convenience of learning at their own pace. Many students enjoy using the different forms of media that allow them the flexibility to replay and review the materials in order to reinforce course content.What are the advantages of taking a self-paced, independent learning course at an off-campus CIL?
• One-stop access to support services
• Convenience
• Flexibility
Three locations close to home: Bloomingdale, Naperville and Westmont.
At these convenient, easily-accessible neighborhood locations, students can take advantage of a wide range of support services in a one-stop setting during early morning, daytime, late evening and weekend hours. During a single visit, a student can turn in homework, check out video and audiotapes, use a computer, take a test, meet with a counselor, work on labs, and check assignments. Instructors are available at the off-campus CIL to meet with their students for some of the courses.
Who are the faculty members at the CILs?
The centers employ 175 faculty, with approximately 50 of these faculty being full-time, tenured instructors. Most distance learning faculty also teach classroom-based courses at C.O.D. A distance learning instructor has a minimum of a master’s degree in the appropriate subject area.
CIL faculty serve as facilitators by supporting and assisting their assigned students. They can interact with the students in person and by voice mail, phone, e-mail and fax. All CIL faculty schedule hours during specified days and times each week and make themselves available to distance learning students.
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