University of Evansville Expanding Online Learning with $1 Million Grant

Indiana's University of Evansville is developing its online education and learning efforts thanks to a $1 million grant from Lilly Endowment. The university will use the funds to "implement major initiatives that will enhance the campus as well as the online learning environment," according to a news announcement.

UE's plans include:

  • Creating an Office of Strategic Technology and Online Learning with the Office of Academic Affairs, which will "lead the University's efforts in developing online education that ensures the same high-quality experience offered through the in-person experience," as well as provide training opportunities and support for faculty;
  • Renovating classrooms on campus so that courses can be broadcast to regional businesses, adult learners working remotely and international locations;
  • Investing in software solutions for the online learning environment, such as exam security, video capture and synchronous course delivery;
  • Increasing efforts toward program and curricular development for online learning; and
  • Developing programs to offer undergraduate and graduate certificates, badges, non-credit professional development programs and new degree programs for adult learners.

"This generous gift we have received from Lilly Endowment will help us transform the educational experience of our students at the University of Evansville," said UE president Christopher M. Pietruszkiewicz, in a statement. "As the world of technology continues to evolve and shape education, we are committed to investing and developing our technological capabilities as a growing sector for the future."

"The worldwide pandemic has changed higher education profoundly, and many of these changes will be permanent," commented Michael Austin, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost at UE. "This generous grant from Lilly Endowment will help prepare us for the world that will exist long after COVID-19 has faded into the background."

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • glowing digital brain above a chessboard with data charts and flowcharts

    Why AI Strategy Matters (and Why Not Having One Is Risky)

    If your institution hasn't started developing an AI strategy, you are likely putting yourself and your stakeholders at risk, particularly when it comes to ethical use, responsible pedagogical and data practices, and innovative exploration.

  • laptop screen with a video play icon, surrounded by parts of notebooks, pens, and a water bottle on a student desk

    New AI Tool Generates Video Explanations Based on Course Materials

    AI-powered studying and learning platform Studyfetch has launched Imagine Explainers, a new video creator that utilizes artificial intelligence to generate 10- to 60-minute explainer videos for any topic.

  • cloud and circuit patterns with AI stamp

    Cloud Management Startup Launches Infrastructure Intelligence Tool

    A new AI-powered infrastructure intelligence tool from cloud management startup env0 aims to turn the fog of sprawling, enterprise-scale deployments into crisp, queryable insight, minus the spreadsheets, scripts, and late-night Slack threads.

  • Stylized illustration showing cybersecurity elements like shields, padlocks, and secure cloud icons on a neutral, minimalist digital background

    Microsoft Announces Security Advancements

    Microsoft has announced major security advancements across its product portfolio and practices. The work is part of its Secure Future Initiative (SFI), a multiyear cybersecurity transformation the company calls the largest engineering project in company history.