Web-based criminology/criminal justice programs in Texas colleges and universities

Abstract

As part of distance learning education, web-based programs have become very popular and have been adopted nationwide by a number of higher education institutions. The adoption of web-based programs in criminology/criminal justice has grown slower than in some disciplines (e.g., business, medicine, computer science, and engineering). This study examines the state of web-based programs in 80 Texas public colleges and universities. The author concludes that although the web-based pedagogical approach is rather new and few courses have been offered, these web-based options for education are becoming increasingly available. The main reasons for the absence of a web-based program are lack of hardware in the departments, concerns for its value and integrity, lack of preparation time, and faculty's lack of familiarity with technology. Several recommendations are provided to make the web-based programs better and more available. This research was supported by the Regional Electronic Academic Communications Highway (REACH) Program Center at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. This research was supported by the Regional Electronic Academic Communications Highway (REACH) Program Center at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin. Notes This research was supported by the Regional Electronic Academic Communications Highway (REACH) Program Center at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin.