Live distance learning delivery of master of science courses in building construction management

• Published in: 2007 37th Annual Frontiers In Education Conference - Global Engineering: Knowledge Without Borders, Opportunities Without Passports pp. F3D-9 - F3D-14
• Main Authors: Behling, K.R., Orczyk, J.J., Jenkins, J.L.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: IEEE 01.10.2007
• Subjects: Adobe Connect Professional; Buildings; Computer aided instruction; Conducting materials; Construction management; Continuing education; Distance learning; Educational technology; Feedback; Internet; Multimedia communication; Practitioner learning; Seminars
• ISBN: 9781424410835; 1424410835
• ISSN: 0190-5848; 2377-634X
• DOI: 10.1109/FIE.2007.4418061

Making advanced degrees accessible to working practitioners traditionally has been fraught with compromises. Internet-based meeting technology is beginning to eliminate many of the shortcomings of distance learning. The authors have designed and begun delivering a Master of Science degree with minimal residency requirements. Twenty-nine of thirty-three credit hours are delivered via the internet in real time with full audio, video and digital interaction between the instructor and the students. The remaining four credits are delivered in four three-day, on-campus seminars. The program is in its second semester with seventeen students virtually attending classes from across the country. This paper details the design of the curriculum which blends many of the benefits of the traditional classroom and the advantages of distance learning. Distant and resident students attend classes together on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Lessons learned will be described from the perspective of the instructor. This paper will help any faculty member interested in establishing a graduate degree program that can be delivered at a distance. Advice is provided on how to efficiently develop and deliver an individual course using a live, interactive, internet-based meeting protocol. Procedures for effectively creating a community of distant and resident students are detailed.