Dear Colleagues,
The Office of Online Learning is a new unit within the Office of the Provost charged with promoting excellence in online education and developing just, equitable, and accessible educational opportunities to enrich and improve the lives of learners in Illinois, throughout the country, and across the globe. OOL is designed to support educational pathways that unfold over the life of a learner, expanding the university’s reach to traditionally underserved learners, particularly pre-collegiate and undergraduate students.
The new office aims to spur innovation in Illinois’ online education strategies. Its mission is to support the strategic development of innovative, student-centered programs, projects, and initiatives; develop policies and practices that foster online student success; and strengthen university infrastructure needed to empower equitable and accessible digital education.
OOL’s digital education strategy is comprised of three interlocking initiatives:
- Develop Undergraduate Pathways Programs. OOL seeks to create new avenues for prospective students leading to first-time entry into four-year degree programs at colleges and universities.
- Build Institutional Capacity in Digital Education. OOL will serve as a “connector” for colleges and units within the university seeking to develop pioneering digital education initiatives and alternative education models.
- Elevate Digital Innovation on and beyond Campus. OOL strives to amplify accessibility to Illinois’ educational resources beyond its physical boundaries.
Lisa Anderson will serve as director of the new office. Prior to joining Illinois, Lisa was associate director of educational partnerships at Stanford University, where she served on the leadership team that co-founded Stanford Digital Education. She was previously assistant director of special projects in the Office of the President at Northwestern University.
If you have ideas or would like to request a consultation, visit the recently launched Office of Online Learning webpage.
Sincerely,
Kevin Jackson
Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education
Lisa Anderson
Director, Office of Online Learning