Evolution of Web‐based distance learning strategies

Strategies for implementing distance learning coursework have evolved and expanded with the growth and maturation of the World Wide Web. The requirements, advantages, and disadvantages of the most common strategies are compared and contrasted. Initially limited to individual efforts, software development has eased the burden of individual faculty and has opened up strategies for greater participation. Institutions attempting large‐scale implementations, however, may find infrastructure requirements overwhelming. An emerging large‐scale strategy involves an institutional partnership with a for‐profit application service provider (ASP). The ASP specializes in total systems solutions for developing and delivering Web‐based distance learning programs. Recent experiences at California State University, Fullerton, with an ASP are discussed.