The Chronicle: Colloquy: Responses

The debate over the viability of accrediting virtual institutions will soon become moot for several reasons. First, the argument against accrediting virtual institutions is simply not convincing, nor has it been convincing in the past to those who pay for the support of educational institutions-taxpayers, parents and working students.

Second, the debate itself tends to take place in a vacuum and seems irrelevant to those outside of academia. Accreditation, to some degree, remains an abstract and nebulous concept.

Third, much of the commentary against accreditation is based on stereotypical notions of how information technology can and is applied to instruction/distance learning.

There is growing evidence, both anecdotal and empirical that various distance learning modes are no LESS effective in fostering student learning.

We can waste much political capital in this rather insular debate or we can turn our focus to determining and implementing effective use of information technology in post-secondary education.

: -- J Riley, Associate Vice President, Academic Affairs (posted 10/29, 11:38 a.m., E.D.T.)

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