At-A-Distance: e-news from the ICN

Third Quarter 2005

IN THIS ISSUE:

• Ball State University debuts AA/BS in General Studies
• Graduate Licensure in Gifted and Talented Education
• “Principles of Employment” explores the employment process
• NUR 254 examines changing role of nursing profession
• Literacy and GED training for Spanish-speaking residents 
• IUHS diploma program approved for CITA accreditation
• ICN Web site—new design, better navigation, expanded content

Ball State University debuts AA/BS in General Arts/Studies

Associate of Arts in General Arts—this program includes many of the requirements
of the basic University Core Curriculum for a bachelor’s degree. Students may
complete this degree entirely through the Independent Learning Program.
Independent learning courses are offered in nine-month and/or 10-week formats.                   

Bachelor of General Studies—a general education program requiring students
to select two minors. The program is not available to students who have earned
a bachelor's degree. Contact the academic advisor of the program to discuss 
which minors may be completed at a distance based on your previous credits
earned and courses that are available through the Independent Learning Program. 
Independent learning courses are offered in nine-month and/or 10-week formats.

Graduate Licensure in Gifted and Talented Education

Ball State University is now offering a graduate licensure program in Gifted and Talented
Education. The program certifies highly qualified teachers, counselors, and/or administrators to work with gifted K-12 students. Students enrolled in the program will learn to design instructional programs and services. The program also requires a practicum training component. While this program of study is appropriate for all educators, it is essential for those educators who desire to work with this exceptional population of students.

• More about the BSU Graduate Licensure in Gifted and Talented Education

Principles of employment explores the employment process

BUS 221: Principles of Employment from Ivy Tech Community College Richmond emphasizes the practical application of various techniques of employee training. Procedures to be discussed include job analysis, behavioral interviewing, and on-the-job training. Available spring 2006.

• More about BUS 221

NUR 254 examines changing role of nursing profession

Available spring 2006, Professional Nursing Issues examines the evolving role of nursing
to meet the changing needs of patients in their environment. Historical aspects, current
developments, future trends, improvement of nursing practices, legal/ethical considerations, and personal/professional growth are covered. 

• More about NUR 254: Professional Nursing Issues.

Literacy/GED training for Spanish-speaking residents

A collaborative effort between Purdue University, IHETS, Monterrey Tec, and the Plazas
Comunitarias in Mexico is bringing educational programs to Spanish-speaking people in
Indiana in their own language. The programs include Spanish-language literacy and
developmental classes in primary grades, 60 skills courses (offered free of charge), high
school classes, and a four-year college degree. The classes will begin soon at County
Extension Offices in Frankfort and Washington, at Warren Township Schools’ Walker Career Center, and at The LEAP Center in Albion. All of the programs offer a variety of “survival skills” for new residents.

• For more information, contact Ann Holcombe at or Kelli Selby.

IUHS diploma program approved for CITA accreditation

Indiana University High School has been approved for accreditation by the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (CITA). Administered by the IU School of Continuing Studies, IUHS is a high school diploma program that students can complete entirely at a distance. More than 160 students have graduated from the program since 1999; 1,200 students are currently enrolled. CITA accreditation will ease the transfer of credits as students move from an accredited school to higher education. The IUHS diploma program is also fully accredited by the North Central Association.                                               

• Learn more about the IUHS diploma program

ICN Web site—new design, better navigation, expanded content

Speedy access and expanded content was the goal of the ICN Web site redesign. The new site provides a variety of new and updated information accessible in three clicks or less. You’ll find a new section called Getting Started for learners new to higher education and distance education; quick links to the most frequently accessed pages for prospective and current students; a simplified course search; and direct links to ICN member’s tuition and fee information, online applications, financial aid offices, bookstores, libraries, and more! After reviewing the site, take our Web site survey to let us know what you think about it, and enter a drawing to win an ICN t-shirt or a copy of "100 Things Every Online Student Ought to Know." 100 gifts will be given away.

• Visit the new ICN Web site.

Send COMMENTS and SUGGESTIONS to: cbrunty@ihets.org