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Home - About SLIS - Distance Learning

SLIS Distance Learning

SLIS's motto is "Conveniently located everywhere". As the motto implies, it is possible to attend our school and obtain your MLIS degree online without leaving home. We are a very heavy user of distance learning technologies. We see distance learning as a format for delivering comprehensive, quality, equitable, and accessible programs of instruction in library and information science throughout California and beyond. Although we offer some hybrid classes (online with a few onsite meetings) the majority of our classes are offered online across the Web. We use the Blackboard learning management system and Elluminate Web conferencing software as well as Second Life and a variety of Web 2.0 tools.

Please note: The School does not have a separate oncampus and online program. We offer one MLIS degree. Very few classes are offered onsite. We are not a place-based "traditional" program.

Course Formats

A totally online class enables the student to take the class from home or work. This model offers maximum flexibility for busy students who have schedules that prevent them from attending traditional course meetings.

A hybrid class may involve attending two or three intensive sessions during the semester at one of the two primary hubs (San José and Fullerton), with the remainder of the class being taught via the Web. Alternatively the student may attend for five or six days in a row on campus with the remainder of the class being taught via the Web.

Computing Environment

Delivery modes include live and archived Web streaming (audio and video), podcasting, and VoIP (voice over IP). SLIS maintains its own Blackboard software to support Web-based classes. The School is also using Elluminate Live! as its live virtual classroom platform. Any student considering a Web-based or partially Web-based class should ensure that the home computing environment is adequate (see home computing requirements).

Regular Session or Special Session?

Students will find distance learning opportunities available in both Regular and Special Session class schedules. For the differences between Regular and Special Session please see: slisweb.sjsu.edu/enrollment/regis.htm#qanda.

Course Offerings

Not every class will be offered on the Web. However, depending on the chosen program specialization, each student will be able to complete their required coursework online or with a minimum of commuting.

The three core classes (LIBR 200, 202, and 204) are available in a totally online format, as is LIBR 285 (required).

We are adding new online sections of electives each semester. See the course schedules for information about upcoming semester classes.

The following courses are offered online to students who have completed the core classes. Each course number is linked to a course description. See also course Web pages.

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