9:40 a.m., May 30, 2003--The University of Delaware has won the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) 2003 Award for Excellence in Distance Learning Programming-Telehealth for its web-based “Dietetic Internship Program.”

Charlene Hamilton, associate professor of health and nursing sciences and dietetic internship program director, Ann Rucinski, nutrition and dietetics instructor, and Jack Smith, chairperson of the nutrition and dietetics department accepted the award at USDLA’s Learning and Training Week Conference and Expo, held April 30, in Washington, D.C.

Hamilton said she is “thrilled” to receive the honor. “We feel that it is recognition that we are on the right track with our use of distance learning.” She said the program is developing a network of preceptors to work with students as they complete the online internship, and she said she hopes the USDLA award will help.

USDLA described UD’s web-based dietetic internship as “an outstanding Internet-based program that prepares students, especially those living in rural areas, to become registered dietitians. Partnerships with universities and state health departments throughout the United State have been developed. The program serves as a model for Internet-based programs. The program is currently completing its second year and has received outstanding evaluations both from students and preceptors.” The association also recognized Hamilton as “a pioneer in developing distance learning courses utilizing threaded discussions, synchronous chats and discussions with guest speakers, interactive case studies and problem-solving activities.”

Hamilton and Rucinski used WebCT to develop the program with the help of PRESENT, User Services’ teaching, learning and technology center.

Article by Barbara Garrison