Multiple programs used Innovation Funds to pilot connection points/learning hubs at alternative sites, off campus from the main learning center. These connection points ranged from face-to-face instruction at partner organizations to virtual classrooms meant to be accessed at a student’s home and from partner organizations. Due to the pandemic and face-to-face restrictions, programs often were able to pivot the off-site, face-to-face instruction toward distance learning using virtual classrooms and videoconference instruction.
The PLC chose this product because as the need for distance learning continues to increase, students want more options for studying, even as program budgets become increasingly stretched. With an increased number of outreach sites and limited staff to provide face to face instruction at all locations, there is a greater need to have available distance learning in more areas. Google Classroom is a free resource that can be used to provide online instruction.