Princeton, Stanford, Yale discuss distance learning
On February 29, Provost Jeremiah Ostriker wrote to the
faculty concerning Princeton's plans for the development of
distance learning programs. He referred to the following
announcement, which Princeton has made in cooperation with
Stanford and Yale universities
"Representatives of Princeton, Stanford and Yale have
been meeting to discuss the growing interest in distance
learning and Internet-based educational programs in the arts
and sciences. Our initial discussions have focused on
continuing education for our alumni. The result of these
discussions may lead to pilot projects that explore these
opportunities.
"The discussions have helped to shape planning on each of
our campuses. More specifically, the discussions have
included consideration of some form of joint effort among
our institutions. As we continue to meet, we will be
consulting widely with our faculty members, administrators
and trustees on each campus before undertaking any
collaborative projects."
Ostriker pointed out that Princeton's participation was
partly in response to urging by the trustees, in conjunction
with the Wythes Committee report.
"I would make two additional points," he said. "First, we
are aiming towards establishment of a nonprofit consortium
similar to those that now exist with our peers in areas such
as cooperative library agreements or consortia working
together in astronomy or high-energy physics.
"Second, our planned audience for this activity is first
and foremost our own students and next our alumni, to offer
them better opportunities for lifelong learning."
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