What distance learners need to know . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Even if a school is accredited, how do I make sure its electronically offered programs are of high quality? With the profound changes taking place in learning in our society today, no standards have been set for electronically offered academic degree and certificate programs. To address this problem, the Western Cooperative for Educational Telecommunications developed some Principles of Good Practice for these types of programs. These Principles are important to you as a consumer because they suggest some questions that you should ask. Be sure that you have been given enough information to answer these questions. If not, get more information about any programs and institutions in which you are considering an investment of your time and money. • Are the requirements for the electronically offered degree or certificate program clear? • Will I have frequent opportunities to interact with my instructors? • How will I get library materials and books? • Has the program provided me with clear, complete, and timely information on the curriculum? • Can I get additional information about the program’s educational effectiveness, including assessments of student learning outcomes and student retention? • If I enroll, how will I get support services, such as advising? • Do I have access to all technologies and skills required to complete this program? • Can I register from a distance? • Can I get financial aid? • Does the institution provide assurance that, if I begin a program and work steadily toward graduation, the program will continue to be offered for a sufficient period to enable me to complete all degree requirements?

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