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The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is a unique organization, not only for its historical commitment to distance learning, but also for engaging with a broad spectrum of distance learning professionals—K-12, higher education, corporate, government, military, telehealth, and home schooling. While more narrowly focused organizations have an important role, a powerful perspective emerges when bright minds serving diverse constituencies come together.

The USDLA was formed in 1987. At that time, companies like Yahoo and Google were still years away. “Power users” were boasting of their Intel 386 processors. In that context, distance learning (DL) was a concept well outside the educational mainstream. Granted, a few people knew something of the process, but hands-on DL experience was rare. USDLA, then, provided a means for these pioneers to find one another.

Today, with more than one-third of college students taking an online class, it’s a far different world, but USDLA remains a vital player. Our members continue to seek out other DL professionals. These practitioners still want to grow and want to offer students a strong education in a robust community of learning. Today’s USDLA stands out as a remarkable resource for teachers and administrators who want to enhance the learning experience.

Hence, our invitation: Come learn from a community that is broader than your own. Whatever your learning specialty, welcome home!

For more information on membership and sponsorship, visit usdla.org/membership.