How do I get started?

A: LearningDotInfo (est. 2001) is a privately owned distance education service registered as a business in Massachusetts and as a Massachusetts Department of Education professional development provider. Currently, in response to genuine need, we are opening up our resources and services to other distance education providers and those who would be. We are currently off-line at the main site. The new LearningDotInfo, featuring the products and services of our members and clients goes on line January 1, 2006. top

Q: Who are Independent Distance Education Associates (A good IDEA!)?

A: I.D.E.A. is an entrepreneurial collaborative, people who have something to teach and believe there is a market for their services.
By sharing common resources (like our on-line course management system, global marketing strategies and full-featured eCommerce system), members and clients can offer on-line courses, seminars, training, and a wide variety of other learning programs at a small fraction of the cost of owning and maintaining their own system. top

Q: Can any topic be taught and learned on-line?

A: With obvious exceptions (like brain surgery), most any topic can be the focus of on-line teaching and learning. top

Q: Are any topics or content not acceptable?

A: Yes! LearningDotInfo WILL NOT accept any content that promotes illegal activity of any nature or is discriminatory or in any way does harm. Adult content (XXX) WILL NOT be accepted. top

Q: Are any topics encouraged?

A: Members and clients are encouraged to use an entrepreneurial imagination in creating their own niche with their own special topics. Generally, we structure our on-line learning system on general categories (see below) that address specific markets and demographics.top

Q: What Categories are featured?

A: Our currently featured categories for on-line learning are: Education, Training, Homeschool, Health & Wellness, Spirituality,
Special Needs, and the Arts. top

Q: How much does it cost to establish on on-line distance education service at LearningDotInfo?

A: Charter members (before 12/31/05) may establish a self-managed, on-line course at no cost!
Please see Membership and Client Fees for details.

Q: What is involved in developing an on-line course?

A: Please see Developing an On-Line Course

Q: Will I need to create my own content/teaching materials?

A: No, in fact, most educators don't create their own instructional materials. While some distance educators do develop
their own content, more commonly they "facilitate learning" by organizing and using the great variety of legal materials that
are available on any topic. top

Q: What is the difference between a member and a client?

A: Members have joined the association, pay an annual membership, share in member-only benefits including deep discounts and referrals, participate in group marketing and, in general, promote individual success through group success. Clients "rent space" at our on-line learning center and act independently. Both members and clients may access consulting, design, editing, and a variety of other services that will facilitate success! top

Q: What Technology will I need?

A: If you're reading this, you probably have everything you'll need to get up an running. But, just for the record, the minimum you'll need includes: a recent model, multimedia capable computer running recent a recent operating system (e.g., Mac OS 9, X; Windows XP);
a relatively fast Internet connection (cable, satelite, DSL), an email address, and a printer. You'll also need basic word processing (e.g., MS Word).

Q: What Technical Skills will I need?

A: You probably have the tech skills you need: word processing, emailing, and basic Internet skills.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Email us a proposal that briefly describes your topic, qualifications, target audience, and why you believe there is a market. We will provide you with an expanded (proprietary) information package and an application for member/client status. In this application, you will be asked to provide personal information (name, address, etc.), expand on your proposal, and provide a resume and references. If your application is accepted, you may choose from a variety of plans and services to get you up and running.