The MSU School of Social Work's Distance Education Initiative

In response to very strong indications of interest from bachelor-level social work practitioners in northern Michigan, the faculty of the Michigan State University School of Social Work unanimously approved the Distance Education Initiative (DEI) early in 1993. The School has established two MSU programs - one in Gaylord and one in Marquette - with all courses offered on site through interactive television. Both programs involve local faculty, advisors, and staff in addition to the TV monitors and cameras. The programs have been approved by the national social work education accrediting organization.

These two programs will add considerably to the number of professionally trained service providers in northern Michigan, with each program contributing at least 40 graduates. There will also be increased linkages between and among local agencies and the School of Social Work.

In addition to the impact on students and agencies at the distant sites, participation in the DEI has also affected many aspects of the MSU program on the main campus. Finally, the DEI has provided an opportunity for the School of Social Work to examine its mission and role within a land-grant university approaching the 21st century - where communications technology and lifelong education will come together.