Is computer-assisted distance learning possible in nematology?

In many institutions of higher education, introductory nematology is taught to small numbers of students. Nematology and other low-enrollment courses may be placed under scrutiny, reformatted, or dropped from the curriculum t o cut costs and improve faculty efficiency. Computer-assisted distance educ ation (CADE) offers a way to increase faculty productivity and job satisfac tion, student learning and socialization, and cost-effectiveness. Participa ting institutions gain by sharing resources with other schools and may reta in or even increase enrollments through broadened educational opportunities . CADE ranges from complete course offerings and video interaction to suppl emental materials on a personal computer for independent learning. A modula r approach to course development is the most successful model because of th e flexibility it offers. While an entire nematology course through CADE is not possible without substantial institutional and faculty investment, supp lemental materials can help remotely located students gain an appreciation for nematology. Nematological images, text, computer programs, and other re sources can easily be placed on Internet web pages. Nematologists in all se ctors need to continue to reach out to the next generation of leaders to te ll them what nematologists do and why nematodes are important. The Society of Nematologists can be a leader in the systematic development of CADE in n ematology.