Modified Video Course Methodology for Distance Learning

In recent years, colleges have made extensive efforts to provide distance learning opportunities for adult students. At Southwest Texas State University, a required course in the Occupational Education program has been delivered in a modified video format. The video was made of an actual class being taught in a production studio. The main difference in the traditional use of a video course and this modified video course was that, instead of copies of the video being distributed to the students in the course, the video was packaged and shown to several remote live classes during the same week it was produced. Students who viewed the video at remote sites could communicate with the professor by telephone, e-mail, fax, actual appointments, regular mail, and through submission of homework and questions to a monitor at each remote site. The night monitor system was one of the unique features of the modified system. The monitor showed the video at each site, collected homework and assisted students with basic information. He or she also maintained weekly contact with the instructor through assisting with filming of the live video as well as discussion with the instructor. In order for the program to work, there must be competent monitors, reliable video equipment, strict classroom rules, and ease of communication with the instructor. The modified video method provides an alternative for students that is less expensive, offers some degree of interaction, and still promotes a classroom environment. (KC)