How eTopics Work

• Each eTopic has co-moderators to minimize the work burden for any one person and provide backup on each topic.
• Formats are standardized but content is up to co-moderators.
• eTopics contain three sections:
  • definition (defines topic, provides important background, why this is important to distance education, provides context);
  • issues (describes policies and issues germane to topic);
  • resources links (provides more background on the topic, typically 5-8 recommended resources and links).
• WCET members are asked to nominate additional resources and relay these to co-moderators. Co-moderators add them to the list if approved.
• Co-moderators maintain their eTopic entry for currency, and add new resource links or remove links that may be outdated.
• WCET supplies the software to enable co-moderators to make direct changes to their text through a password-protected system.
• Co-moderators may be asked to sponsor community discussions from time to time on the topic.
• WCET members are asked to volunteer to serve as co-moderators for topics not yet assigned by completing an eTopic Co-Moderator Form.
• WCET members can nominate new eTopics by completing an eTopic Request Form.

Check out our first eTopics

During 2005-2006, WCET is working with members who have volunteered to serve as co-moderators for topics such as faculty issues, intellectual property rights, technology costing, outcomes assessment, digital content, and student services. Their eTopics will be added to the website in the coming months so keep checking the website for new additions. And, consider serving as a co-moderator for an eTopic.