Landmark College

Chuck Sengstock

Distance Learning Visionary

I have worked in higher education for more than 35 years, with most of my experience focused on distance learning. Each of these experiences has shaped me into the digital leader I am today.

The most important lesson I have learned as an online learning leader is to manage emotions effectively. Be understanding, realistic and respectful. When making decisions, fully consider their impact on your team members and how they align with your department’s and institution’s mission and vision.

It is imperative that those affected by any decision, especially full-time faculty, are included in the discussions leading up to it. Full-time faculty are the foundation of any successful online learning program. Sustaining a strong program with only adjunct faculty is difficult. Including faculty and departments in decisionmaking is therefore essential. Communicate clearly, be transparent and build trust. This approach helps ensure decisions serve the best interests of students, faculty, staff and the institution.

With the current nationwide decline in enrollment, institutions are seeking ways to grow their student populations. Many are turning to online graduate programs, while others are expanding undergraduate offerings through new online degrees and degree-completion programs. Some are exploring microcredentials, certificates and continuing education opportunities. However, before using online learning to bridge enrollment gaps, these initiatives must be supported across the institution. They can no longer exist as isolated pilots within a single college or school without a broader strategy. Online learning decisions must be inclusive.

"When making decisions, fully consider their impact on your team members and how they align with your department’s and institution’s mission and vision."

Boards of trustees, administrative leadership, faculty and staff must support new initiatives and the necessary resources must be provided. This includes funding for technology, staffing and professional development for faculty and staff. Planned growth in online programming should be integrated into the institution’s strategic plan. There should also be a clearly defined leader of online learning, such as an Associate Provost, Dean, or Executive Director, with representation on key committees and responsibility for providing regular updates to faculty and administration.

To support diverse learners, some institutions are designing courses and programs that directly address learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism and executive dysfunction. These efforts aim to support both new and current neurodivergent learners. At the same time, retention has become an increasingly important focus. Supporting students throughout their online journey is essential. While not every student will succeed, all programs should have the resources in place to support them as effectively as possible.

It would be difficult to have this discussion without addressing AI. Many faculty and institutions continue to navigate its role. There are numerous ways to use AI in higher education, but each institution is different. Ongoing dialogue about AI use and policy is essential. Every institution, including its distance learning division, should have a clearly defined AI policy.

Although there are continuing trends in augmented and virtual reality and other engagement tools, accessibility remains a central priority. The WCAG 2.2 AA accessibility standards have become a major focus. It is critical to ensure that courses and electronic materials are accessible to all students. Institutions that thrive online are those that meet student needs holistically.

Throughout my career in higher education and distance learning, I have benefited from mentors and colleagues who supported my journey. Many of these connections were formed through continued education and professional organizations. If you are interested in becoming a distance learning leader, seek out organizations such as the United States Distance Learning Association and build a network to support your goals.