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Distributed learning is an instructional model that
allows instructors and students to take advantage of resources where learners
have access to content, experts (the teacher and beyond), peers, and services
that are independent of time and place. Distributed Learning may occur
within a classroom environment or with students located in different,
noncentralized locations as in distance learning, or in some hybrid mode
of delivery. Understanding how to deliver distributed education effectively
is the cornerstone of learning and technology today.
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Portland State University's Certificate in Distributed Learning Systems is designed for administrators, training managers, instructional designers/technologists, and instructors who are interested in maximizing resources and learning in their classrooms and other training environments. This certificate consists of five courses and a capstone project. All of the courses are offered entirely online. There is no requirement for campus residency to complete these courses. All courses may be taken for graduate credit and those credits may be applied toward a graduate degree in the Graduate School of Education or transferred to other university programs. For those who do not desire graduate credit but do wish to participate in the certificate program, these courses are also offered on a no-credit basis.
Portland State University is on a quarter system (10 week terms). A minimum of two courses in the certificate program are offered each term. The proposed schedule for offerings during 2003 and 2004 is below. However, if new enrollments warrant, it is possible that more courses will be made available.
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Winter 2003
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Spring 2003
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Summer 2003
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Fall 2003
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Winter 2004
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Spring 2004
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Online Instructional Strategies (3 credits)This course explores learning theories and strategies you can use to conduct and create online courses. You will also address issues of accessibility for economically and physically challenged learners, how to meet the needs of diverse learning styles, and the pros and cons of selecting online learning as the primary delivery medium. While participating in the online course you will be experiencing the use of the technology as a student, while simultaneously developing components of your own online course using Web development and course management software. The course will step you through all the theory and practice required for effectively integrating web-based technology in your classes. The final project for the course is to develop a web-based course prototype of your choice. |
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Distributed Learning Essentials (3 credits)This course introduces learners to the literature, research, and practice of distributed learning from a historical and international perspective. Theories of distributed learning are integrated with modern theories of learning and instruction. Distributed learning will be evaluated as an instructional approach, in terms of delivery, development, and implementation. Included in the course is development and delivery of a distributed learning lesson based on relevant theoretical foundations. |
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Distributed Systems Models and Structures (3 credits)This course provides learners the knowledge and some experience in developing
a distributed education model. Students will have the tools to advise
decision-makers about the impact of distributed learning models and methods,
and provide guidance on how to transition from a traditional education
or training |
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Instructional Design for Distributed Learning (3 credits)This course focuses on the design, development, and analysis of instructional/learning
materials for distributed learning systems. Learners will analyze the
differences between various instructional design models and identify the
theoretical constructs supporting each model. A systems approach to instructional
design will provide the foundational structure for students to determine
the "when, where, what and why" of instructional design within
a variety of distributed learning systems. The final |
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Managing Distributed Systems (3 credits)Most of the activities that distributed learning managers and consultants are involved in require their participation as either the project manager or a member of a project team. This course will prepare learners to participate as a team member and will provide the skills necessary to manage distributed learning projects. Included in the management course will be identification and effective utilization of people, hardware and software resources, budgets, development timelines, quality control, and change management. |
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Distributed Learning Systems Capstone (3 credits)This course is the capstone for the entire Distributed Education Certificate program. As such it is designed to synthesize and integrate the knowledge gained in all previous courses and demonstrate the application of theory and practice through a project. The student will select a venue in which to apply his or her knowledge of distributed education design, development, delivery and evaluation.
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| TOTAL CREDITS = 18 |