Connecticut State University System Selects WebCT and The Alliance to Enhance Distance Learning Initiative

Hartford, Conn., Oct. 17, 2001 ? Following extensive research and analysis, the Connecticut State University System has selected WebCT to provide the course management system for its online and web-enhanced classes.

“OnlineCSU, the virtual classroom of our four universities, constantly strives to improve the student-centered learning experience,” said William J. Cibes, Chancellor of the CSU System. “We believe the selection of WebCT and its partners is the next critical step in further enhancing our successful online venture.”

WebCT, based in Lynnfield, MA, is the world’s leading provider of integrated e-learning systems for higher education. Joining WebCT to serve CSU are SCT Banner, Campus Pipeline and Eduprise. SCT Banner currently provides CSU its administrative data systems. Campus Pipeline will integrate with SCT to provide an e-learning portal product, while Eduprise will supply consultation and e-services. The four vendors linked call themselves “The Alliance.”

“Working with The Alliance builds upon our investment in Banner and gives us a head start as we expand our online offerings,” Cibes said. In addition to providing the most cost-effective and practical solution for the CSU System, The Alliance also will provide faculty and CSU institutions with greater flexibility in providing distance learning, an attribute that will enhance course content and instruction.

“With our previous vendor, all our course materials were posted for us. Now, when a timely subject comes up I can enter it in my course by myself, immediately,” said vendor selection committee member and Western Connecticut State University mathematics professor C. Edward Sandifer.

Students will have a more flexible, customized learning experience featuring user-specific messaging, calendars and personal tools. Also once the new system is in place, student services, such as registration, payment and credit transferring will be streamlined through data integration.

“Administrative processes will be easier for distance-learning students and staff alike,” Cibes said.

Course conversion, data integration and other issues are being addressed by a cross-section of university advisers.

The Connecticut State University System, which includes Central Connecticut State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, Southern Connecticut State University and Western Connecticut State University began offering web-based classes via OnlineCSU in 1998. OnlineCSU offers a variety of graduate and undergraduate courses, including two full degree programs, a master of library science offered by Southern Connecticut State University and a master of data mining offered by Central Connecticut State University. To date, more than 4,000 students have taken courses through OnlineCSU.

Contact: Rebecca L. Kaput, OnlineCSU Marketing
(860) 493-0039
kaputr@sysoff.ctstateu.edu

Rebecca L. Kaput

Marketing

OnlineCSU

Connecticut State University System Office

39 Woodland St.

Hartford, CT 06105-2337

P: (860) 493-0039

F: (860) 493-0120

www.OnlineCSU.ctstateu.edu