Student services

From the earliest management plan predating creation of ICN, the emphasis has been on keeping student needs foremost in mind. The effort continues to balance high-tech and high-touch to support both technology sophisticates accustomed to self-service as well as uncertain first-time adult learners who need individual attention and explanation.

IHETS escalated development of broad and deep information on the student-centered ICN Web site and online preregistration for classes so users can find what they need without making phone calls or returning print-and-mail forms. Links to institutional bookstores, libraries, financial aid, and other key offices provide simple paths for adult learners who often complain of difficulty in finding the right contacts deep within extensive institutional Web sites.

At the same time, IHETS continues to support the human network of campus and learning center coordinators throughout the state, helping ICN student services staff provide full information about distance learning and one-on-one pre-enrollment counseling for learners in community centers, via telephone, or the Web. ICN also provides learner support and assistance through an online inquiry system and toll-free hotline. A comprehensive ICN Users Guide is available online, and IHETS provides resources for new community-based learning centers to help them launch successful, sustainable services for their towns or regions.