BGSU Distance Learning earns 'Best Practices' designation

BGSU has been granted the Best Practices in Student Services designation by the Ohio Learning Network for its exceptional service in distance-learning programs.

OLN is a consortium of 65 Ohio colleges and universities that aggregates services and resources to help Ohioans find educational programs that meet their needs. The network works with colleges and universities using technology to improve teaching and learning, and helps build partnerships among institutions of higher education, businesses and communities.

"By meeting OLN's Best Practices standards, BGSU demonstrates a commitment to providing high-quality support and services to students," according to Connie Molnar, BGSU's director of distance learning.

The Best Practices designation indicates to students that online courses and programs have met the state's quality guidelines.

George Steele, director of educational access at OLN, noted, "Students will find timely and necessary information online about these institutions' e-learning programs, including financial aid, admissions, tutoring, access to library resources and other services."

The guidelines for Best Practices in Student Services were created by the OLN academic outreach committee, which comprises distance-learning program directors from two- and four-year public and private higher education institutions across Ohio. Their report, "Quality Learning in Ohio and at a Distance," can be viewed online at www.oln.org/about_oln/pdf/Quality_TF.pdf.

BGSU is accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools to offer online degrees.