USF 1999-2000 Undergraduate Catalog - Pages 59 - 62
Educational Outreach extends the University’s academic resources to enable students constrained by time and/or place to meet their educational goals; to promote workforce and economic development through customized training; and to support lifelong learners’ personal and professional growth. More than 25,000 people enroll in the credit and non-credit offerings provided through a variety of delivery systems, formats, and scheduling options through USF’s four campuses and at a variety of off-campus locations, including community colleges, public schools, community centers, libraries and a network of corporate and governmental affiliates. Asynchronous learning models use established technology, such as televisions, VCR’s, and computers supported by internet networks and emerging wireless digital applications to enable individuals to take courses in their homes and workplaces, at times that fit their personal schedules. Visit our web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu for more information.
Educational Outreach supports the teaching and learning process for distance, off-campus and residential instruction. Services are organized around four primary areas of support: faculty, students, courses, and classrooms.
Distance Learning Faculty Support helps faculty incorporate a range of instructional technologies to enhance the learning experience of the students. This support involves course production and development assistance for web-based instruction, videoconferencing, two-way video/audio courses, telecourses, videotapes, and one-way video/two-way audio studio classroom instruction. These applications of technology expand access for students constrained by time and/or place.
Educational Outreach provides additional faculty support through its participation in USF’s Teaching, Learning and Technology Roundtable (TLTR) and VITAL (Virtual Instructional Team for the Advancement of Learning). For more information call (813) 974-7984 or visit our website at http://www.outreach.usf.edu.
Distance Learning Student Support distributes materials to students at off-campus locations, serves as a central information and referral point for distance and off-campus courses, publishes a supplemental schedule each semester of distance and off-campus classes, and maintains a viewing area for telecourses and other offerings with taped sessions for students’ review. Students enrolled in telecourses, teleweb courses (television-based courses with web components), and other offerings (previously referred to as Open University) can access copies of all course syllabi, call a 24-hour hot line for information about test and review session dates and syllabi changes (813/974-3063), and with the instructor’s permission, arrange for make-up exams. Students in certain statewide programs and off-campus courses (formerly PACE) register and pay for their courses directly through this office. Complete details about courses supported in this manner are included in the schedule of classes.
Remote learners are supported through institutional efforts, as well as statewide systems, including the Florida Distance Learner Reference and Referral Center housed at USF; the Virtual Library, with access to web-based resources and an electronic reserve system; and Academic Computing’s provisions for e-mail and computing accounts. Students have easy access to information about USF’s distance and off-campus learning opportunities and support services through a special publication available each semester (ACCESS USF: Distance and Off-Campus Learning). To request a catalog or more information, please call (813) 974-2996, send e-mail to: distance@outreach.usf.edu, or visit our web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu.
Distance Learning Course Support provides access to USF’s network center and distance learning infrastructure. For more than 30 years, WUSF-TV (USF’s public television station) and local/regional cable partners have broadcast telecourses, both PBS and locally-produced lecture series, on a variety of subjects. Telecourses, web-based instruction, and the mixed model of teleweb courses demonstrate distance learning’s “any time, any place” opportunities to fit the schedules and educational goals of our students. All four USF campuses have newly installed videoconferencing classrooms, supporting fully interactive classes and facilitating active, collaborative learning in a distributed environment. In conjunction with VITAL organizational partners, Educational Outreach provides faculty support for design, development, and production of courses using computer applications, videoconferencing, multimedia enhancements, Instructional Television Fixed Services (ITFS) network, broadcast video systems, and satellite uplink/downlink capabilities.
Technology in the Classroom Support provides access to standard and state-of-the-art classroom technology through delivery, set-up, maintenance, and over-the-counter check-out of equipment for faculty and classroom use. This comprehensive service model includes traditional classroom equipment, such as overhead projectors and VCR’s and more recent additions, including computer projection systems, electronic “smart” boards, and digital cameras. Integrated technology systems are being installed in high use classrooms, enhancing the learning environment and facilitating the use of multimedia and technology enhancements in the teaching and learning process. Specially equipped distance learning classrooms have been expanded to include fully interactive videoconferencing environments at all four USF campuses. These new capabilities also enhance USF’s K-12, community college, civic, and corporate partnerships by expanding educational opportunities throughout the 10-county service region, and beyond.
A wide range of credit courses are offered at off-campus locations, including community colleges, public schools, libraries, and community-based or corporate sites. These courses serve the unique needs of non-traditional students with busy schedules, by making courses available in locations convenient to their homes and workplaces. Concentrated “live” classes offered in intensive formats and an impressive array of evening and weekend classes complement the more traditional schedules of semester-based courses and provide a convenient alternative to distributed learning options for students who prefer group-based models. Organizations and businesses may contract with USF to offer courses on-site. All courses offered in an off-campus location are standard USF courses listed in the Undergraduate or Graduate catalogs and are taught by USF faculty. Students in these programs must meet all USF admissions, academic standing, and graduation requirements. In certain programs, registration and fee payments are made directly to Educational Outreach, and may be made via VISA or MasterCard. Specific details are included each semester in the schedule of distance and off-campus learning classes, or may be obtained by calling (813) 974-2996 or sending an e-mail to distance@outreach.usf.edu.
As part of USF’s commitment to expand educational opportunities throughout the region, a new initiative was established during the 1998-99 academic year. Selected degree programs are now offered at PHCC, or other locations in Pasco and Hernando counties, providing more options for students. Undergraduate programs offered are: Interdisciplinary Social Sciences (B.A.), Nursing (R.N. to B.S.N.), and General Business (B.A.). Graduate programs offered are: Library and Information Science (M.A.) and Educational Leadership (Ed.D.). Courses are offered in-person and via distance technologies. As with all off-campus credit opportunities, students in these programs must meet all USF admissions, academic standing, and graduation requirements. Call (813) 974-2996 or visit the web site at http://www.usf.edu/news/pasco.htm for general information or to request a flyer describing USF’s Pasco-Hernando Initiative; or contact Adult and Transfer Student Services (813) 974-6444; Undergraduate Admissions (813) 974-3350; or Graduate Admissions (813) 974-8800 for more specific information about admission and transfer policies. Academic advising is provided by each of the colleges offering degree programs as part of this off-campus initiative.
For more than 30 years, WUSF-TV (USF’s public television station) and local/regional cable outlets, including the Tampa Education Channel and Manatee Educational Television, have broadcast telecourses on a variety of subjects. Supported by Educational Outreach, these courses are available to students at all four USF campuses (Tampa, Lakeland, St. Petersburg and Sarasota) and their surrounding areas. Courses have on-campus sessions or web-based modules for orientation, reviews and student interaction components. Some courses can be used to fulfill liberal arts and/or major requirements and can be used as elective credit for many degree programs. Students should check with their advisors concerning any questions about the applicability of specific courses to their degree programs. Students enrolled in telecourses are allowed to tape the programs during broadcasts, but may review episodes and taped review sessions in the student viewing area provided by Educational Outreach, in SVC 1072. In lieu of watching the courses on television, students may secure tapes from RMI Telecourse Rental for most courses (1-800-745-5480).
Course syllabi are available approximately one week before the start of each semester and may be picked up at SVC 1072. Office hours are 8:00am-7:00pm M-F; however, syllabi are available outside the office and can be picked up later at night and during weekends, whether or not the office is open at the time. Syllabi are also available on the web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu.
In addition to the telecourses and teleweb opportunities available, USF supports “any time, any place” learning for students by a variety of courses offered entirely through internet and web applications. These on-line courses range from individual offerings that can be used as electives in various majors, to sequences of courses qualifying students for teacher certification or endorsement, such as the ESOL offerings meeting Florida’s requirements for teachers of English as a second language. Courses are added each semester to USF’s on-line listings, and are included in the schedule of distance and off-campus courses published by Educational Outreach. Visit our web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu for more information about these rapidly growing options for USF’s students.
Educational Outreach promotes workforce and economic development through customized training and a wide range of personal and professional development opportunities. Primary programming division include: Community Music, Conferences and Institutes, Lifelong Learning, Mediation Institute, ORBIT (Office of Resources for Business and Industry Training), and Senior Programs.
The USF Community Music Division is a full-service community music school and a member of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts. Utilizing facilities of the School of Music, the Division also uses music facilities in selected area schools and brings quality music instruction to various neighborhoods. The Division provides non-credit instruction for children and adults in both private and group settings. The school year is divided into two semesters of fourteen weeks each plus a summer session. Programs range from pre-school music classes through adult private instruction.
Dedicated to providing the highest quality musical instruction, the Division has a talented teaching staff comprised of musicians active as both teachers and performers. These include Florida Orchestra members in addition to leading community-based music teachers and free-lance musicians. For details, contact the USF Community Music Division, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MHH 116, Tampa, FL 33612-3899. Ph. 813/974-5792.
As a unit of Educational Outreach, the Division of Conferences and Institutes plans and implements continuing education programs such as conferences, seminars, workshops, symposia and institutes for University units and external sponsors. The Division provides comprehensive program management services including program development/planning, financial planning and management, promotion, instructional resources, registration, logistics, Continuing Education Units, on-site management, evaluation and certificates. Over 6,000 people participated in DCI programs during 1996-97.
The Division is committed to excellence in services and the enhancement of continuing education opportunities for constituents. Programs assisted by the Division are educational in nature, complementary of the University's mission, nonproprietary and approved by appropriate University units.
For additional information about developing programs or learning about upcoming programs, contact the Division of Conferences and Institutes, Educational Outreach, USF, 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, MHH 116, Tampa, FL 33620-6756; telephone 813-974-5731; fax 813-974-5732; e-mail laurade@admin.usf.edu.
The Division of Lifelong Learning provides open enrollment continuing education programs for workforce education, professional development, and personal growth. Courses are noncredit and offer instruction in writing and communication skills, foreign languages, computer applications, visual and performing arts, test preparation, and personal development. The Division also offers specialized certificate programs and pre-college programs for youth. Various educational programs (workshops, seminars, and short courses) are scheduled throughout the year in conjuction with the Colleges and Departments of the University. The programs vary in length from one day to one year, and the subject matter is concentrated as needed for the group being served.
The Division of Lifelong Learning also develops programs for workforce development in business and industry, government, professional, civic, and service groups. A variety of instructional methods assures maximum educational effectiveness and encourages individual participation. Distinguished faculty from USF and national and international resource persons serve as consultants, instructors, and facilitators in the programs.
The Continuing Education Unit (CEU) is awarded to participants who successfully complete programs that are sponsored by the Division and approved by the appropriate academic unit. Transcripts indicating awarded CEUs are available on written request.
Professional program coordinators provide program planning, budget preparation and evalutaion, and are available to assist organizations, both within the University and in the local community, in developing programs consistent with the needs of the group and the overall educational objectives of the University.
The Florida Center for Writers, a joint project of the Department of English and the Division of Lifelong Learning at USF, was established to foster an appreciation of literature and to help writers of all levels master their craft. The Center sponsors the annual Florida Suncoast Writers' Conference and Workshop, ongoing classes in writing, the publication of Sunscripts: Writing from the Florida Suncoast Conference and Workshop, and various lectures and readings.
For more information, contact the Division of Lifelong Learning, Educational Outreach, University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, MHH 116, Tampa, FL 33620-6756; 813/974-5201.
The USF Mediation Institute provides Florida Supreme Court approved courses used for certification in family and circuit civil mediation. In addition, the Mediation Institute provides educational programs that incorporate conflict resolution skills in parenting classes for divorcing families; juvenile dependency mediation; orientation materials for mediating parties; advanced mediation training; and assistance in developing training programs in emerging areas of conflict resolution through mediation.
For further information, contact the USF Mediation Institute, Educational Outreach, 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, MHH 116, Tampa, FL 33620-6756.
ORBIT serves as a central information resource to link the business and academic communities in support of economic development initiatives and provides highly customized training programs specializing in database and information technology.
MTEC (Manufacturing,Training and Education Center), now located at the STAR Center in Pinellas County, offers cost effective certification to the latest international standards, including ISO 9000 and ISO 14000, and helps small to medium manufacturers with a product engineering grant program. For additional information, call MTEC at (727) 545-7541, send an e-mail message to orbit@outreach.usf.edu, or visit the web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu.
Established in 1998, ORBIT was designed to facilitate access for the corporate sector to the University’s resources for the purpose of specialized workforce development and training. For more information, call (813) 974-2801, send an e-mail message to orbit@outreach.usf.edu, or visit our web site at http://www.outreach.usf.edu.
The Division of Senior Programs initiates and coordinates programs for adults of retirement age. Many of these programs are planned in conjunction with seniors who play an active volunteer role in facets of the programs. Programs inlcude:
Senior Citizen Tuition Waiver Program: Florida residents who are 60 years of age or older by the first day of a respective semester may take certain undergraduate or graduate courses on a space available basis without paying tuition. Academic credit is not awarded, examinations are not required, and grades are not given. An orientation-registration is held at the beginning of each semester. Peer advisors are available for advising.
SeniorNet: An international, non-profit organization, SeniorNet is for seniors age 50 and over who are interested in learning to use computers. Members who join SeniorNet share and exchange knowledge and interest with members through an online network. Members may take courses taught by senior volunteers with extensive computer experience. Courses and fees are described in information sent to seniors who ask to be on a SeniorNet mailing list.
Learning in Retirement Institute: As an outgrowth of Elderhostel, the Learning in Retirement Institute builds on the motivations and experiences of adults in retirement as they continue learning, expanding their horizons and enhancing their personal development. Learners develop intellectually stimulating educational programming within an organizational structure which distinguishes the Institute as an educational community of older learners. Learners must be members of the Institute and pay fees for study groups each semester. Membership information, study groups and study group leaders are described in information available to seniors who request inclusion on the LIR mailing list.
Other programs and courses are offered each term. For details on all Senior Programs, or to be placed on our mailing list, contact Division of Senior Programs, USF, 4202 E. Fowler Avenue, MHH 116, Tampa, FL 33620-6756; e-mail leeleav@admin.usf.edu or call (813) 974-2403.
Please send questions or comments to:
Karen M. Hall - webCat@ugs.usf.edu
Effective Date: Semester I, 1999
http://www.ugs.usf.edu/catalogs/9900/outreach.htm