In a unique online learning program, Fairleigh Dickinson has become the first traditional university to require all undergraduate students to take Internet-based courses (one course required for every 32 credits). The program is founded on two principles: 1) Through online learning, we promise to bring our students invaluable perspectives from throughout the world; and 2) We are committed to educating global citizens for a lifetime of facility with the Internet.

We believe that online learning can offer something different from traditional classroom education, something that will enhance the total learning experience. That view has led us to develop what we believe to be a new paradigm for online learning and its benefits. Along with providing proficiency with Web-based instruction, online learning can offer global education perspectives unavailable through standard classroom models.

Perhaps the most innovative part of the online learning initiative is the introduction of Global Virtual Faculty — world-class scholars, professionals and experts from around the globe. Working under the coordination of on-site faculty, the Global Virtual Faculty bring a global dimension to the learning experience by offering international views and observations on the issues being studied. Approximately 45 GVF members currently partner with our on-site faculty in the teaching of online courses.

The first required online learning course for freshmen is the first class in the University Core sequence, The Global Challenge, which provides students with tools and perspectives for confronting issues faced by people living in an increasingly interdependent and interconnected world. As students investigate challenges to humankind, such as those raised by environmental degradation, modern warfare and deadly infectious diseases, they interact with experts from around the globe, as well as classmates and faculty members. Through access to sources on the Internet, students learn how to evaluate and integrate information. Special attention is given to the implications of the scientific method as compared with cultural, aesthetic and ethical approaches to understanding the world around us. Sophomores choose from online offerings within their respective colleges; and juniors and seniors pick from a variety of more discipline-specific courses.

Throughout the first five years of the program’s development, FDU will spend approximately $12 million on the initiative. These monies are being devoted to such areas as instructional design, upgrading the digital infrastructure, course management software and technical support personnel, as well as a vastly expanded Department of Educational Technology.

The online learning initiative has been supported by grants from public and private sources, including the state of New Jersey, the AT&T Foundation and the Pharmacia Foundation.