REQUESTING HIGHER EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS TO ASSIST IN EXPANDING DISTANCE LEARNING AND ENCOURAGING THE LEGISLATURE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE FUNDING FOR DISTANCE LEARNING.

WHEREAS, there is a need in our state to allow for greater distribution of distance education courses, programs and training for the students attempting to obtain degrees from higher educational institutions in our state; and

WHEREAS, there is a need for the legislature to provide for adequate funding for the acquisition of necessary technology for distance education delivery; and

WHEREAS, there is a need for the legislature to remove the funding formula disincentives regarding distance learning;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the higher educational institutions be encouraged to explore alternate delivery mechanisms such as correspondence, internet, self-study and videos so as to allow for greater distribution of distance education courses, programs and training; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature be asked to provide adequate funding for the acquisition of necessary technology for distance education and delivery among the state's higher educational institutions; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the legislature be asked to remove the funding formula disincentives regarding distance education; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the chairman of the legislative education study committee and the board of regents at each higher educational institution.