Topic 3:

Courses/Programs in On-line Training

Question: Without formal education in training, adult learning principles, workshop design, etc. I've designed, conducted, evaluated, and refined training programs in communication competencies for my organization for four years. Now I'd like to get a post-grad degree in the field that focuses on on-line training. Can you recommend schools that offer such programs?

--Rebecca, Asia

Answer: A number of long-distance learning options exist for programs in on-line training. I am sure you will able to find one that will meet your needs and time schedule. They include:

www.umuc.edu/gsmt/mde - Offers both MA & Certificate Programs in Long Distance Education.
http://www.capellauniversity.edu/ - Offers Ph.D., MS & Certificate Programs in Instructional Design for Online Learning & Teaching & Training Online.
http://www.learn.utoronto.ca/ - Offers a Certificate Program in E-learning.
http://www.newwaytotrain.com/ - Offers a Certificate Program in "Using the Internet in Corporate Training." (Through Jones International University)

Since all these programs are offered through Higher Education Institutions, it is also possible to take some basic, general T&D courses, if you so desire.

I would also recommend that you take out a free subscription to e-learning Magazine: http://www.elearningmag.com/ as a way to begin to become better acquainted with innovations, practice and issues of the field. And be sure to check in regularly with ASTD's web site: Learning Communities/E-Learning and view the on-line Learning Circuits Magazine.

--AR