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Session 3630 Distance Learning Courses on Campus

M. E. Parten, M. C. Baker Department of Electrical Engineering Texas Tech University Lubbock, Texas 79409-3102

Abstract This paper describes the development of a distance learning course in Semiconductor Processing and the use of the course for an on campus offering. The objective was to spread the development cost over more courses and students by offering the same course on campus. Results and lessons learned will be presented.

Introduction The development and use of distance learning programs for engineering programs, particularly masters degree programs, has been around for many years. Most of the programs, until recently have used live or taped video presentations with occasional audio questions and answers. Currently, new distance education programs using the Internet are becoming available. The development of these programs can be very time consuming and costly. Unless there is a large, continuous demand for these distance courses it is difficult to justify the development cost. Another concern that always arises when considering distance education is the relationship of the distance course to an on campus course. Maintaining the same quality of instruction for the distance courses compared to campus courses can be difficult in some cases. One possible approach to solving these problems is to use the same materials for both the distance education course and the on campus course. This allows the development cost to be spread over more courses and students. It also can help to insure the courses are basically the same. However, other important questions arise. Is a distance learning formatted course effective for an on campus offering? Do the instructors that developed the course obtain some credit for future offerings? Is this approach cost effective?

An Example Program In the Fall of 1996, a combined senior/graduate course on semiconductor processing was offered by the Electrical Engineering Department at Texas Tech University. Although this course was offered on campus, it was developed for distance learning. The objective was to try to determine if a course structured for distance learning could be taught effectively on campus. The course had an enrollment of 18 undergraduates and 12 graduate students. The course overview, as it appeared on the web site is shown below.

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Parten, M. E., & Baker, M. C. (1997, June), Distance Learning Courses On Campus Paper presented at 1997 Annual Conference, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 10.18260/1-2--6519