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Section: June 1998

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I spoke recently about technology issues on two campuses in California to audiences of faculty, staff, and students.

I was surprised to learn how important it was to the students and the faculty that they be able to interact with each other directly rather than just through technology.

These students and their professors recognized technology's potential to enhance postsecondary education. They just weren't willing to sacrifice the traditional student-faculty relationship at a cyberspace alter.

At each campus meeting, students stood to ask if distance education meant they would no longer have personal contact with faculty---and to say that this face-to-face contact was a part of their educational experience they definitely don't want to lose.

The same went for the faculty. At Pasadena City College, one faculty member who teaches automotive repair noted that he needs students with him so he can check their progress.

At Long Beach State University, an engineering professor said he needs to see student expressions to know if they're understanding the material.

We as an Association clearly need to keep focused on concerns like these.

Chris Maitland is an NEA higher education coordinator.