General FAQ'S
Is DE actually effective?
Yes. There is a body of evidence which suggests that DE is every bit as effective as face-to-face delivery. When appropriately implemented, DE courses produce the same outcomes as courses provided on campus.
Student FAQ'S
What computer equipment do I need to take a Distance Education course?
In general any computer with a modern operating system that supports either Internet Explorer 6 or Firefox can be used to take courses on line. Course videos are available over the Internet using Real media player so a fast Internet connection is helpful but not necessary. Take a look at our Before You Begin page for more details.
I am a non degree seeking student, where do I go to apply, and to find more information?
Visit the UNLV information and checklist for non-degree seeking students. There you will also find an online application form to complete.
How do I fullfill the requirements for a Proctored Exam?
All of the information needed for Instrucotrs, Proctors and Students is included on the DE Proctored Exams page.
What do I do if I missed a Cox cable lecture broadcast?
You can watch lectures online as a streaming video if you have the RealPlayer plug-in. Simply logon to your WebCampus course and find the links to your videos.
You can also visit the Lied Library's Media Resources desk and ask to watch a tape of the lecture(s) you need. Tapes can not be checked out and can only be viewed in the library and headphones will be provided.
Faculty FAQ'S
Who owns a DE course?
It depends, but UNLV has a policy that provides guidelines for determining the ownership of intellectual property. To be effective, this policy should be discussed ahead of time and any questions answered in writing before a course is developed. A draft of the policy is available -- click here. You can also find copyright information in the Info for Faculty section of this Web site.
Will the University use DE as an excuse to replace me or my faculty colleagues?
Absolutely not. The purpose of DE is to attract more students to the University and to meet the needs of a constituency not serviced in traditional ways. If anything, this could lead to greater demand for faculty services.
Will it change the role of some professors?
Very likely. Increasingly, DE has led institutions to be more student-centered and to place greater emphasis on learning. Many faculty find that their contact with students is strengthened online through written communications. They also find that students offer more reflective responses and improve their writing skills in online courses.
Are there incentives for developing a new course for online delivery?
It depends on the course, whether or not it has been taught online before, consent of the sponsoring department and Distance Education, and other factors. To discuss specifics contact the Director of Distance Education at 702-895-0708.
How do I find out more about teaching a new course for Distance Education?
The first step is to make sure it is not currently offered by Distance Education, you can do that by viewing the DE course listing. To verify you can call our office at 702-895-0708. The next step is to complete the Course Development Approval Form.
Does the office of Distance Education offer any faculty development grants?
The Office of Distance Education offers Development Travel Grants, which provide financial support for faculty to attend conferences and workshops that emphasize teaching and learning in Distance Education courses. Check out the Development Travel Grants page for more information.