implemented this best practice in 1989

Qualifying under the Best Practices catalogue:
3 Provide Capabilities
31 Manage resources and capabilities
312 Deliver products and services to customers

Best Practice Summary
(how it works, how you measure it)

The distance education program of New River Community College (NRCC) had its humble beginning in 1980 with a single distance course. Today, the college offers 68 courses through distance education and the program continues to grow. Courses are offered in a variety of formats, including print-bases, media-based, Web-based, and any combination thereof.

Impact on the Process Organizational Performance (OUTCOMES)

Current enrollments in distance education courses exceed 12 percent of the college's total enrollment. Distance education has become a major access vehicle for many students. The primary focus of the IDL program at NRCC is to serve students in the college's service region. Approximately 75 percent of IDL students reside in the NRCC service region. One major (Education) is available in its entirety through IDL courses.

Best Practice Qualification

The IDL program provides an alternative to traditional classroom instruction and provides access to students who would otherwise be unable to enroll in college courses. Survey results indicate that only 38 percent of the respondents would have taken the course on campus had the course not been offered through distance education. The program utilizes various formats and appropriate technologies to meet the learning needs of time- or space-bound students.

For Additional Information

New River Community College
P. O. Box 1127
Dublin, VA 24084

Kathy Kleppin
(540) 674-3614
NRKLEPK@nr.cc.va.us

Jack M. Lewis
(540) 674-3631
NRLEWIJ@nr.cc.va.us

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