Online school recognizes faculty during National Distance Learning Week

Online school recognizes faculty during National Distance Learning Week

Last week, schools around the country celebrated National Distance Learning Week (NDLW) through a variety of events, and one institution chose to honor its faculty during the celebrations.

Drexel University held the ceremony on November 9 to recognize employees who have made a significant contribution to the field of online education. Among the winners were Karyn Holt from the College of Nursing and Health Professions, Thomas Edwards from the College of Engineering and Kristen Betts from the Goodwin College School of Education.

Kenneth Hartman, academic director for Drexel University Online, said the school honored the faculty with "enthusiasm and excitement."

"It is their talent and commitment to teaching online that make Drexel University a recognized leader in the field of distance learning," he added.

NDLW is held annually to create greater awareness and appreciation for online education at all levels, including pre-k-12 education, higher and continuing education, home schooling, as well as business, corporate, military and government.

According to Reuters, the distance education sector grew 13 percent last year, and nearly one in four students take at least some college courses online, up from one in 10 in 2002. Two million students, mostly older than the traditional 18-22 year-old undergraduates, take all their courses online.