Strategic Vision for Online Education at Winthrop University

Stated in Winthrop’s Strategic Plan: United in Excellence is the desired outcome of Academic Excellence and University Distinctiveness, where the strategic value of online learning is defined as the following:

  • expanding Winthrop University's academic reach
  • increasing the accessibility of Winthrop's educational resources
  • catering to a broader student demographic
  • extending the university's influence and impact in the region
  • reinforcing its status as a leading educational institution dedicated to inclusivity, innovation, and regional development

The Strategic Vision for Online Education is that Winthrop University will deliver an exceptional online educational experience that enhances access, meets emerging needs and interests, and maintains the quality of the Winthrop experience for diverse student populations.

Guiding Principles for Online Education

Education at Winthrop University is built upon a fundamental commitment to academic quality. To deliver online education that maintains the rigor, academic standards, and quality Winthrop experience expected of our campus-based programs, Winthrop University commits to the following guiding principles:

Student-Centered Experience

Winthrop University is committed to providing a student-centered university experience. Quality online education requires individualized student attention, which is reflected in class size, an online student orientation and advising component, opportunities for interaction and collaboration with faculty and peers, rigorous coursework that prepares students for a successful career, and responsive technical support. Online students are provided access to institutional student support services, activities, and programs that are consistent with the University's mission, promote student learning, and enhance student development.

Ongoing Support for Faculty

Winthrop University is committed to providing ongoing faculty support for effective and dynamic online instruction through a variety of approaches, including professional development opportunities, specialized training courses on online course design and facilitation standards, training resources, instructional design services, and responsive technical support.

Provision and Support for Emerging Technology

Winthrop University is committed to providing and supporting emerging technology that delivers and enhances the academic experience for all users. Emerging academic and learning technologies that are appropriate and accessible to students, faculty, and staff will be used effectively to support online education.

 

Review Date
November 2024