Similar to the online revolution of the mid-1990s, hybrid-learning classes are redefining how community college students access higher education. Hybrid classes combine online and in-person learning to provide options for students, colleges. The author's perspective is based on experiences at two very different institutions: At Rio Salado College,…

Asserts that, regardless of college size and budget, an Internet presence is attainable and will help increase the quantity and quality of communication between students, staff and faculty. Adds that this elevated level of interaction should result in time savings, increased registrations, higher retention, and happier students. (NB)

Distance learning is a vital part of today's educational environment. Using complex technology, schools are able to connect instructors and students across geographic, physical, and temporal boundaries. Sophisticated software and world-wide connectivity create virtual classrooms that span the globe. These large, accessible, asynchronous,…

The five campuses of Cerro Coso Community College (CA) are located in Mojave Desert country, where many potential students live 100 miles or more from the nearest college site. This document describes lessons learned and accomplishments associated with development of its virtual campus, online courses, and online associate degree programs. (PGS)

Discusses Floyd College's (Georgia) Information Technology Project (ITP), which began in 1997. Reports that every student and faculty member at the college is given a laptop, network connections have been implemented all over campus, and a help desk service provides technical support. The project has been successful, but student headcount fell…

Reports that all 58 of North Carolina's community colleges have collaborated to form the Virtual Learning Community. States that thousands of students are now enrolled in more than 60 distance learning courses, while another 50 courses are being planned. Describes planning and development of program, as well as challenges. (NB)

Argues that community colleges should require students to own laptop computers, and that costs should be calculated into the need for financial aid so that no one will be deterred from owning laptops. States that requiring students to own laptops dramatically reduces technology costs for colleges. (NB)