DALLAS - May 5, 2000 - UT Southwestern Allied Health Sciences School is collaborating with the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences to support online instruction for students interested in earning a bachelor's degree in nuclear medicine technology - the first such online degree offered in the United States.
Online instruction, or "e-learning," has gained popularity because it gives students the flexibility to pursue their education at their own pace. According to InterEd, an online research company, 75 percent of all U.S. universities will offer online courses by the end of the year.
Dr. Gordon Green, dean of the allied health school, said UT Southwestern is pleased to be able to assist in offering this opportunity to allied health students in Texas. "By collaborating with the University of Arkansas and offering the necessary support services, we are expediting the training of these professionals without the expense of creating an entirely new program on this campus," he said.
Martha Pickett, director of nuclear medicine technology at the Arkansas medical campus in Little Rock, said, "Students who use online instruction develop advanced computer skills and also learn to communicate effectively. These skills are repeatedly cited by employers as highly desirable in today's workforce."
The only time students are required to be on the University of Arkansas medical campus is during a three-week session that includes orientation, registration and completion of a short course.
During that time, they also meet the faculty and other students and learn how to use the computer to access their virtual classroom, various Internet sites and the medical library. Although students won't be officially registered with UT Southwestern, they will have access to its library and certain student services. Clinical courses will be taught at UT Southwestern-affiliated hospitals and at Dallas pharmacies.
Classroom courses will be offered on a scheduled basis via a specially designated Web site. Instruction will take place through voice conferencing, discussion, lecture, self-directed study and team projects. All courses are taught by the Arkansas medical center's faculty.
For more information, contact Phillip Clifford at 501-686-6848 or [email protected].
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