Information Technology (IT) Support

Online courses require server support from Information Technology.

Technical support is required in a number of areas, such as server configuration, maintenance, and support. Installation and maintenance of learning/course management systems is also necessary, as well as troubleshooting any problems or difficulties. The DEC can work with the IT Director to request that specific IT personnel be assigned to distance education. The DEC and IT staff assigned to distance education should schedule regular maintenance and upgrades and notify faculty and students of these scheduled server shutdowns.

It is important for the DEC to be involved in the planning and implementing of campus-wide technology issues. As technology is upgraded on campuses, or new buildings are planned, the possibilities of distance delivery should be considered.

State Management Information System (MIS) reporting requires that distance delivery courses be specially coded.

The DEC must be aware of the specific requirements and coding for each specific mode of delivery. This information must be communicated to various entities on campus, such as MIS, Admissions and Records, Scheduling, and Curriculum. Colleges often have their own, internal method of coding courses, which then must be converted to state MIS codes. The DE Coordinator must be knowledgeable of this process and the persons responsible for implementing this on their campus.