| Distance and Online Learning |  | Distance Learning provides adult learners with the opportunity for structured learning outside the classroom. This may include CD ROMs, take home packets, and/or online resources.
Studies indicate ABE reaches about 20% of eligible students. Distance learning can increase access, reach underserved populations, empower learners, meet individual needs, help adult learners prepare for lifelong learning in the workplace, and assist college bound adults to prepare for online environments.
Distance learning can be either the primary or a supplemental means of instruction: stand-alone (all learning takes place via distance learning) or blended (includes distance and classroom instruction).
Beginning in 2009, Minnesota ABE students will be classified as Distance Learning students if at least 50% of their contact hours are distance learning.
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Supplememental Services Project
In July 2009, the St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium (SPCLC) began
implementation of a statewide Supplemental Services Distance Learning (DL) grant.
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Approved Distance Learning Programs in Minnesota
This section includes information on approved Distance Learning programs in Minnesota, with proxy hour equivalents, prerequisites, and proxy hour documentation requirements. It includes documents to on how to apply for approval of a new Distance Learning program (download) and how to enter student proxy hours for approved programs in MABE and MARCS.
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Results of Statewide Scan
In early fall 2009, 48 Minnesota Consortia completed an online scan to assess the current use of Distance Learning in ABE programs around Minnesota. A summary of results is included in this section.
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Virtual Task Force
The Supplemental Services project facilitates a 'virtual task force' - a network of ABE Distance Learning providers to recommend policy and procedures, identify best practices, and define the role of Distance Learning ABE in Minnesota.
If you are interested in the Task Force, contact Tom Cytron-Hysom.
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|  |  |  |  |  | | How can Minnesota ABE use Distance Learning? | Download PowerPoint summary from 2010 Summer Institute, "Distance Learning: A Statewide View, a Local Perspective." This provides an overview of current and future Distance Learning in Minnesota ABE, with a case study of implementation at the local level.
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 | | Statewide Distance Learning Report | This May 2010 report provides a comprehensive summary of current distance learning in Minnesota ABE, identifies Best Practices, and suggests goals for the future.
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 | | Helpful documents | |
 | | Results of Statewide ABE Distance Learning Scan | Download
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