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Distance learning (DL) instruction is defined as courses (or course sections) in which instruction occurs remotely and various forms of technology are utilized to provide students/faculty with differentiated modes of interaction and communication, including but not limited to synchronous distribution (e.g., face-to-face interaction provided through room based video, desktop-based video, or other modes of interactive audio and video conferencing) and asynchronous distribution (e.g., web-based or internet-based online courses/sections). DL instruction may be offered through such technologies as identified, provided, and supported by the University.

As with traditional courses, the instructor’s academic unit may exercise the right to approve course content, requirements, and time frames for instruction.

When the Campus Dean or an academic unit assigns the development of, or conversion to, a distance learning course, that assignment will be offered first to Tuscarawas Campus Faculty who are willing to undertake the project, who are approved to teach the course, and who have the necessary technical expertise.  Faculty do, however, have the right to receive reasonable initial technical training as well as ongoing technical support from the University’s Division of Information Services and the Center for Teaching and Learning, any applicable academic computing units, and the network staff at any campuses involved in delivering or receiving the course.  To assist in the day-to-day delivery of distance learning instruction, faculty also have the right to expect that all receiving sites will, with reasonable advance notice, provide for the copying and distributing of course materials as well as the proctoring of exams.

Faculty members who develop or convert a course at the administration’s request should consult the Workload Equivalency section of this Handbook for additional information. Faculty who develop or convert a course for distance learning delivery will receive a workload equivalency appropriate to the scope and nature of the project, normally one (1) credit hour of workload for each credit hour of the course.  Faculty may also opt for a one-time cash payment to be made upon completion of the development of the course. The amount shall be agreed to by the faculty member and the Campus Dean prior to undertaking the development of the course.

Faculty members who teach a distance learning course will be compensated in the same manner they are compensated for teaching a traditional course, and those who travel among campuses in support of such courses are eligible for travel reimbursement consistent with University policy.  All travel reimbursements should be agreed upon by the faculty member and the Dean prior to the development and teaching of any distance learning course.