A Systems Framework for Distance Learning in Engineering Graduate Programs Adedeji B. Badiru* and Rochelle R. Jones Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright Patterson Air Force Base Dayton, OH 45433 SYSTEMS FRAMEWORK FOR DL IN ENGINEERING GRADUATE PROGRAMS Received 25 August 2010; Revised 19 May 2011; Accepted 23 July 2011, after one or more revisions Published online 15 November 2011 in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/sys.20202 ABSTRACT Distance learning (DL) is undergoing a rapid growth in academia, business, industry, and the military. Recent technological developments in computer-based training, along with shrinking internal resources, and rising industry interest in sustainable workforce development, provide a strong impetus for DL investments. Due to the multiplicity of efforts involved in planning and executing a DL program, it is imperative that organizations view this nontraditional mode of knowledge transfer from a systems perspective. This paper presents a coordination-centric systems framework for implementing a DL program using the SIMILAR systems engineering process. The paper also suggests linking SIMILAR to two complementary models, Triple C and D-E-J-I, to enhance the overall systems approach. Implementing DL from a systems view aids in identifying the interrelating components, resource interfaces, and improve- ments needed in techniques used to deliver educational material at a distance. The proposed framework is effective in assisting DL instructors, students, administrators, and other stakeholders to improve the learning environment and manage the complex interaction of people, technology, and instructional processes. Because of its large and diverse operational base, the military is embracing DL programs aggressively. An example is presented of the DL program for graduate systems engineering program at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Eng 15: 191–202, 2012 Key words: distance learning (DL); systems engineering framework; SIMILAR process; DL practices 1. INTRODUCTION The premise of this paper is that, because of the multitude of factors involved, a systems framework is needed to enhance distance learning (DL) programs. A DL program, in this context, refers to the collection of distance learning infrastruc- ture, hardware, instructional process, student management (admission, records, etc.), administration, course materials storage, transmission, and instructor training. The term DL program is often used interchangeably with DL system, DL environment, and DL enterprise. There is a noticeable growth in DL programs in recent years, particularly due to a shrinking resource base. Distance learning has become a growth indus- try not only in academia, but also in industry, business, government, and the military, where there is an interest in sustainable workforce development. One of the 14 grand challenges for engineering is specifically on advancing per- sonalized learning [NAE, 2008]. This confirms the growing trend toward distance learning programs. The goal, in this respect, is to accommodate different learning styles and indi- vidualized abilities of students. So, whatever can be done to improve the experience and outcome of distance learning is essential for future workforce development. This paper sug- * Author to whom all correspondence should be addressed at: Department of Systems and Engineering Management, Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT/ENV), Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, 2950 Hobson Way, Dayton, OH 45433-7765 (e-mail: adedeji.badiru@afit.edu). Systems Engineering Vol. 15, No. 2, 2012 © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 191 Regular Paper