The Tele-Web Distance Learning Course Format For The Graduate Degree In Dietetics

Abstract

Our university is converting to the Tele-Web distance learning format to deliver courses that will meet the requirements for the M.S. Degree Program in Nutrition and Dietetics. The Tele-Web course is a unique distance learning concept because it integrates both the Instructional Television (ITV) format with a complete World Wide Web-based instructional package. Many practicing dietitians need the M.S. degree and live and work full-time at distant locations, making regular attendance to on-campus classes very difficult. The twelve-week Tele-Web course is designed for graduate students who may have difficulty attending class on campus. The integrated method of the Tele-Web provides an extra measure of interaction with students and greatly enhances the quality of instruction. The Tele-Web format is especially beneficial to dietetics students who are at the graduate level and who need more advanced information delivered in an efficient manner. In the ITV component, students view course information through twenty-four, one hour television broadcasts on our local Public Broadcasting network. Students who live outside the viewing area are mailed videotapes of the broadcasts. The ITV component uses instructional graphics and presents interviews with nutrition specialists. In the Web component, students have access to the course website. Students receive assignments, view lecturettes, complete interactive Internet-based exercises, and post summaries of their completed assignments on our website bulletin board. Classmates also participate in open discussions through regular “chat” conferences with the instructor and with their classmates on the Internet. One of the Tele-Web courses in our program, HEV 662 Micronutrients will be demonstrated.