Comparison of Traditional and Distance Education Courses

Distance education courses involve a mediated means of instruction other than the traditional face-to-face classroom setting. USI distance education courses may utilize the Internet, videoconferencing, videotape, DVD, or CD-ROM technologies. The type of course and the needs of the students usually determine the delivery method or combination of methods by which a course is available to students.

Additionally, on-campus courses are typically instructor-centered whereas distance education courses are more student-centered. The distant student assumes additional responsibility in determining his/her learning pace, establishing the time and location for studying, and communicating with the instructor and other students.

Tuition and Fees: 
Tuition rates for USI distance education courses are the same as tuition for on-campus classes. Distance education courses have an additional fee of $30/course assessed. Other fees may also apply. Non-Indiana residents taking only distance education courses are assessed the resident tuition plus a $10/credit hour distance fee.

The 2007/2008 tuition rates are as follows:
Undergraduate:  Indiana Resident, $157.70/credit hour; Non-Resident, $375.75/credit hour
Graduate:  Indiana Resident, $229.01/credit hour; Non-Resident, $452.14/credit hour

USI tuition and fee information is available online at http://www.usi.edu/admissn/costs.asp. For more information on distance education fees, go to http://www.usi.edu/distance/tuition.asp.

Examinations:
As with on-campus courses, the course instructor determines exam dates and exam methods. Typically, the instructor gives pencil & paper examinations him/herself or utilizes online testing. It is the student's responsibility to verify, at the beginning of the course, the method of examination delivery.
At the instructor's discretion, make-up exams may be proctored on campus or off-campus by proctors approved by the instructor. Evansville-based students take exams on the USI campus. Please view the Policy for Exams Proctored at DE Learning Center.

Students living outside the Evansville area should view the DE Learning Center Exam Policy and Proctor Information Form and may select proctors from the listing of ICN Learning Centers found at http://www.icn.org/services_and_resources/learning_centers/by_city.html.  

Directions for completing the Proctor Information Form 
(not required if you are using the USI Learning Center)

Print the form, complete the top portion, and then forward it to the proposed proctor to complete the bottom portion. Once the completed form is submitted to the USI Learning Center via mail or fax, our office will contact and confirm the proposed proctor, obtain approval from the instructor, and then notify you of proctor approval. You should secure an off-campus proctor at the beginning of the term, NOT immediately prior to an examination. Please allow two weeks for the proctor approval process. 

Visit the USI Distance Education website at http://www.usi.edu/distance/ if you need additional information about distance education programs, courses, or student support services.