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  Minnesota LINCS
  Minnesota Literacy Council
  756 Transfer Road
  St. Paul, MN 55114

  Phone: 651.645.2277
  Fax: 651.645.2272
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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 can be classified as Distance Learning students if at least 50% of their contact hours are distance learning.

Supplememental Services Project

In July 2009, the St. Paul Community Literacy Consortium (SPCLC) began implementation of a Supplemental Services Distance Learning (DL) grant.

Approved Distance Learning Programs in Minnesota

This section includes information on approved Distance Learning programs in Minnesota, with proxy hour equivalents and prerequisites. It also 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 MnABE (download).

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.

Virtual Task Force

The Supplemental Services project is currently forming 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.

Distance Learning Websites and Other Resources

Provides a range of resources and information.

Monthly ABE Distance Learning Newsletters
February 2010

State ABE Distance Learning Policy
Download

Proxy Hour Request for Distance Learning Programs
Download

Results of Statewide ABE Distance Learning Scan
Download

How can Minnesota ABE use Distance Learning?
Download PowerPoint summary from 2009 Summer Institute, "Notes, thoughts, and ideas from the field."