DISTANCE LEARNING COMPONENTS IN CS AND GIS COURSES

In this paper we discuss distance learning teaching strategies, materials and tools (components) for Projects in Computer Science (CoSc 224), Software Engineering Project (CoSc 470/471) and in Topics in Database (CoSc 416) Computer Science (CS) courses in Okanagan College’s (OC) Computer Science Department (CoSc). In addition to the regular courses, we successfully used distance learning teaching strategies, and components in three joint projects between Okanagan College (OC) and Vancouver Island University (formerly Malaspina University-College, BC, Canada).

Two of the first three projects were developed for Okanagan College, while the third was for Vancouver Island University (VIU) and funded by BC Campus. As a result of joint projects, the number of distance learning courses at VIU and one new course at OC were developed and successfully taught. Later, VIU team successfully developed a nation-wide Geographic Information System (GIS) project in Lithuania, based on the results of the BC Campus project. To provide help for universities, colleges and academia with distance learning teaching strategies, and components and to achieve success, this paper summarizes aspects of joint educational activities and joint educational programs developed between Okanagan College, Vancouver Island University, University of Paris East Créteil, France (UPEC) and other institutions. The experience gained in these projects will help evolve distance learning strategies that are specific to CS and GIS higher education. The high familiarity of students with IT is a decisive factor in this respect.