Rice University has announced the launch of Rice Digital Learning and Strategy, a reimagined office aimed at expanding the university’s impact through innovative digital learning initiatives.
Formerly known as Rice Online Learning, Rice Digital Learning and Strategy reflects the university’s expanded mission to integrate digital tools and strategies across all levels of education — enhancing undergraduate learning, supporting graduate and professional programs and increasing global access to Rice’s world-class education.
“This new name reflects the growing importance of digital learning in achieving Rice’s long-term strategic goals of advancing undergraduate and graduate education and developing a strong workforce here in Houston and throughout Texas,” said Amy Dittmar, the Howard R. Hughes Provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Digital learning allows us to pioneer new teaching and learning tools, expand access to the full Rice experience to more students regardless of financial means and offer courses, certificates and degrees to upskilling professionals to meet industry needs.”
“Online learning will always be a core part of what we do,” said Shawn Miller, associate provost for digital learning and strategy, in a message to Rice faculty and staff. “But to meet the goals of the university’s strategic plan, we’re evolving our approach. Digital learning at Rice is no longer limited to online courses — it’s becoming an essential element of every learning experience, from classrooms in Houston to communities around the world.”
From the development of OpenStax — providing free, open educational resources to millions worldwide — to early ventures in online course platforms such as edX and Coursera, Rice has consistently leveraged technology to improve learning outcomes and broaden educational reach. Rice Digital Learning and Strategy seeks to build on those successes and broaden the impacts of digital education to:
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Improve access, equity and impact: Applying tools and strategies to extend access and make learning more inclusive, equitable and impactful.
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Enable dynamic teaching: Empower faculty to focus on teaching essentials and enhance the learning experience.
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Connect learners: Build community and foster meaningful relationships.
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Extend abilities: Leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative tools to help learners achieve beyond their expectations.
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Increase Rice’s reach and impact: Expand the university’s influence in Houston and worldwide.
Rice Digital Learning and Strategy reflects a purposeful shift toward building a more adaptable and inclusive learning environment, Miller says.
“By supporting flexible teaching models and innovative technologies, including opportunities to explore new ways to teach and learn with genAI, we’re helping prepare both students and faculty for the demands of a rapidly changing world,” he said.
For more information, visit digital.rice.edu. To register for the Rice Digital Learning and Strategy fall open house, click here.