Network set to accommodate students

The Texas Computer-based Testing Collaborative, a web-based testing network for distance learning students in Texas, recently was organized by Jenny Jopling, associate director of the Center for Distributed Learning.

The TCTC, a network of 22 Texas universities, six public libraries and one independent school district, will regulate testing procedures of distance learners. In the past, distance learners tested at different types of institutions — such as Sylvan Learning Centers or their places of employment — making it difficult for professors to monitor when and where students were testing. At times, students were required to drive long distances to the home campus for testing. The TCTC will allow students to test at various sites across Texas, making it easier on distance learners and on faculty.

"The main purpose is to accommodate students," Jopling says. "So many students don't have time to commute to campus, especially if they live far away, work or have a family. Faculty will also benefit because it ensures academic integrity, and they are able to know exactly when and where a test is being taken and who is taking it."

To fund the TCTC, Jopling sent e-mails to members of the Texas Distance Learning Association and the Association of Educational Technology. She sent letters to all four-year institutions in Texas and contacted the Texas State Libraries and Archives Commission. She then submitted a grant proposal to the Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund Board. To date, Jopling's efforts have resulted in $747,702 for the TCTC. The maximum amount allowed for the grant was $750,000.

Last fall, UNT enrolled 1,500 students in 42 web-based courses and 200 students in videoconference courses. The TCTC locations at UNT are planned for the new Gateway Center on the Denton campus, the UNT Health Science Center at Fort Worth and the UNT System Center at Dallas.

"Through this program, we will really help students pursue their educational goals from home," Jopling says.

BY JENNY McCORMACK paiswri2@unt.edu

Other featured articles in this issue

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• Updates from the president
• Campus construction continues
• Physics professor works to improve accuracy
• Weather closing information
• New state rep speaks at Fall 2000 commencement
• Two TAMS students have promising year ahead
• UNT beats SECC $100,000-goal by $28,172