Kansas State University

MANHATTAN -- The launch of a virtual open house is the latest effort by Kansas State University's Division of Continuing Education to help bring the campus to online learners.

The website creates the experience of a campus visit for current and prospective distance education students who are unable to travel to campus. It features videos of online instructors and advisers, a campus photo tour, online program information and more.

Lynda Spire, assistant dean of continuing education, says the virtual open house helps connect students to campus and gives them an introduction to online learning at Kansas State University.

"Many adult learners are thinking about pursuing a degree or course at a distance. The virtual open house allows these prospective students to experience the campus and see what resources and services are available to them," Spire said.

The site also gives current distance education students a chance to explore campus up close using interactive features like Google Street View. The division's newly launched live chat feature lets students communicate directly with distance student services staff to answer questions.

"The division is always looking for ways to enhance or increase the connection that distance students have with K-State so they always feel like part of the campus," Spire said. "We want to give them the same sense of place, support services and K-State experience that on-campus students have."

The virtual open house will remain accessible online for distance education students to explore at their convenience. View the site at http://www.distance.k-state.edu/openhouse.

For more about Kansas State University's online programs and courses, contact the Division of Continuing Education at informationdce@k-state.edu, 1-800-622-2578 or http://www.k-state.edu/distance.