What YOU Think –
Your Responses to the Question of
the Week
Questions of the Week
are an important part of
THE ALPHA PROJECT
Question
of the Week 10/17/99:
Should Phi Theta Kappa establish "virtual" chapters for two-year
college consortiums offering associate degrees on line?
Willie G. Wynn, Alpha Beta Rho Chapter, Northern Virginia Community College, VA
Let's keep up with the times and the technology. Seemingly everything is going online, including a college education. We are in an environment where training does not stop with the completion of a degree, but begins and continues. This continuation of training must, quite often, be worked into peoples schedules. The solution is increasingly becoming the online classroom.
Many graduating high schoolers are replacing going to college with entering the job market and are returning to the classroom later after they are burdened with a job. The virtual classroom is often the only chance they have to continue to meet their fiscal responsibilities and to complete their education. Why should they be treated any differently from those that meet their instructors in a face-to-face? Technically, scholarship is scholarship, isn't it? Additionally, it is the individual instructors responsibility to hold the virtual students to the same standard as they hold the on-campus students, isn't it?
Posted Date 11/3/1999
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L. Michelle Bauer, Alpha Gamma Sigma Chapter, Palm Beach Community College, FL
Absolutely, there should be virtual chapters! As we step into the 21st century, we must embrace every method to interact...even virtually!
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Mike McDermott, Alpha Epsilon Rho Chapter, Bellevue Community College, WA
Fellow Scholars, Under no circumstances should virtual chapters become part of the Phi Theta Kappa organization. In our time, impersonalization is one of the great dangers posed by use of the Internet as a primary communication form. People are getting away from hand-written letters, face-to-face communication and the true fellowship that is made possible by these modes.
Internet communication fosters abbreviated communication that borders on being no communication at all. Students are increasingly encouraged to spend less and less quality time in the presence of others. If we give in to the 'instant education' offered by these pseudo institutions, we might as well admit that we've forsaken fellowship, service, leadership and true scholarship.
And what of the students like myself who have spent countless hours running our chapters and making it possible for the great majority of paid members to get the notation on their transcripts without ever coming to a meeting? Are we the suckers of the organization? Why are we doing all this if it is just as acceptable to sit home in front of a computer with a cup of tea and dial in your 'participation'?
And what about those poor people who can't make meetings because of work and family commitments? Well, I'm one of them. I just got back from removing old meeting signs around campus and putting up the new ones for orientation. That was two hours of my Saturday morning. Did I forsake time with my kids? Not on your tintype - they brought their skates and served as my 'old sign scouts'. Had a great time and we were together. The family commitment/full-time job dodge is just that.
The fact is, anyone can join Phi Theta Kappa just by qualifying and paying the initiation fee. But they need to do it through an active chapter. That way, the people who serve their peers by keeping alive the chapter - and the organization as a whole - have the use of the chapter's share of the initiation fee for critical programs. I've heard from quite a few officers and members whose chapters have to carefully pick and choose who gets to attend even regional events, much less International, due to funding problems. Rather than finding ways for them to be members without real participation, we should be searching out methods of inclusion, such as conference scholarships. And where will the initiation fees from 'virtual' members go? If those who agree with me lose this battle, at least consider using the fees from these pretend members to fund travel and attendance expenses for chapters in outlying or depressed areas.
We should be promoting real interaction with each other and with the outside world. And to me, that means honest-to-goodness, in person contact. Our chapter makes extensive use of the Internet in announcing meetings, calling for volunteers, gathering opinions, etc. In other words, we're more interested in how we can use the Internet to bring us together than in how we can use it to justify keeping fellow members at arm's length.
This is a wonderful organization of which I am proud to be a member. But if we are going to give up on our lifeblood, active chapters on real campuses, we might as well save our time and money and join Phi Beta Kappa when the time comes. At least they don't pretend to be something other than what they are.
P.S. I only speak for myself, our chapter Vice President will be responding with a recap of the debate concerning this issue which took place at our chapter meeting. Honesty demands I point out that not all members of my chapter entirely agree with me.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Kathy Webb, Georgia Regional Alumni Association Executive Committee, Alpha Sigma Eta Chapter, Georgia Perimeter College, GA
The purpose of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize and encourage scholarship. It is also to develop leadership, service, and fellowship for the members of the society. We are all aware that there are members who are inducted and never heard from again. Their scholastic achievements are recognized and their contributions to their chapters do not extend beyond the payment of dues. I have always considered my relationship with Phi Theta Kappa to be a reciprocal one. I have gained much from my membership and in turn have given much to the organization. I also realize that not everyone is able to do this. When I was president of my chapter, I was always concerned that Alpha Sigma Eta try and include those who had trouble with traditional meeting times and activities. I support the idea of including all of those members who would like to be active in the society, but because of various constraints are challenged to become active members. The goal of being inclusive demands creative solutions. My concern would be how to involve a "virtual" chapter in the development of certain purposes of Phi Theta Kappa, such as service. I strongly feel that "virtual" chapters should be held to the same standards as traditional chapters in their level of activity, although the same goals would need to be accomplished in a different manner. I think that with excellent organization and planning this can be achieved.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Joseph A. Denman, Alpha Phi Lambda Chapter, Blinn College-Bryan, TX
I feel that we should form chapters for students receiving degrees on-line. But when creating these "virtual" chapters, we should take care to allow these chapters and their members the opportunity to participate in Phi Theta Kappa events and to experience the growth associated with Hallmark projects. Because without access to all of Phi Theta Kappa's rewards, members of "virtual" chapters are not really members of Phi Theta Kappa.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Lorie Schindewolf, Beta Delta Iota Chapter, Montgomery College, TX
YES!!!!!!!!
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Toni L. Bradley, Alpha Omicron Chapter, Tyler Junior College, TX
I believe it is going to be a necessity for Phi Theta Kappa to address virtual chapters. The same technology that allows these students to get an education should also allow them to be part of Phi Theta Kappa. As I understand it, Scholarship is our most important hallmark. It is this hallmark under which we are invited to the organization in the first place. Why not give these people, whose only means of getting an education may be through a "virtual campus," the same privileges of belonging to such a great group of people. As far as service projects, I don't believe we should leave people out because they may not can participate in certain service projects. They could still implement smaller projects in their area and make a difference. Everyone who is working hard to get an education at a two-year school through any offered avenue and getting the required grade point average, deserves to be a part of Phi Theta Kappa, plain and simple.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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April Wails, Alpha Nu Beta Chapter, New Mexico State University – Alamogord, NM
I believe technology is going to be, if not already, a major part of Phi Theta Kappa. The electronic forums and e-mail polls such as this one, allow us to interact with each other on a daily basis. I believe creating this first "virtual" chapter will open new doors of opportunity for many of us and give those students not "physically" attending a classroom the reward for their hard work. The only way anyone will know if it works is to give it a shot!
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Leah Vann, Beta Nu Chapter, San Antonio College, TX
I have mixed feelings about establishing virtual chapters.
Personally the entire first year of my college career I attended school full time by distant education classes. It was being inducted to Phi Theta Kappa and becoming involved that allowed me to fully understand all the benefits the community college had to offer. Having virtual chapters would deprive members of all the benefits Phi Theta Kappa can help provide. By employing the four hallmarks in the chapter's activities, members gain the ability to reach out onto their campus and into their community.
On the other side, having virtual chapters would allow students only able to attend school by distant education to reap the rewards Phi Theta Kappa has to offer. By becoming a member, all of the scholarship opportunities would be open to these students.
It would take a while to decide between the pros and cons of having virtual chapters.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Clint Dellinger, Alpha Pi Nu Chapter, Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City, OK
We should absolutely not establish "virtual" chapters for consortiums offering online degrees. The flood of online degrees, accelerated Bachelors and Masters degrees have cheapened higher education. We should not acknowledge these degrees. In my opinion, people can now pay for a degree, not an education.
Posted Date 11/2/1999
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Amybeth Maurer, Rho Kappa Chapter, Elgin Community College, IL
Yes, I think Phi Theta Kappa should actively pursue a "virtual campus". This is the direction that higher education is going and Phi Theta Kappa should move with it as well.
One aspect of Phi Theta Kappa that I really enjoy is the diversity of chapters. Each chapter operates independently of each other and I have learned so much in my short time as an advisor from seeing how other chapters approach the same challenges we have. A "Virtual Chapter" will only benefit Phi Theta Kappa and help other chapters to grow as well.
Our mission wholeheartedly supports including this chapter. In today's society we can "virtually" do anything we want on line. This will encourage members to be more creative in their planning and implementation.
Bottom line, if there is an interest from community college students to be affiliated with Phi Theta Kappa, then we need to meet that need. Even if it is out of our comfort zone or normal mode of operation.
I think you will find many virtual chapters popping up and we may find them to be very successful!
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Joycelynn Grigson, Advisor, Psi Psi Chapter, Brazosport Community College, TX
My opinion (not a chapter opinion): We are entering an age faster than the speed of light. Overlooking the possibility of a "virtual chapter" at this time would take us from the cutting edge (where Phi Theta Kappans seem to thrive) to a view behind another leading the way. If scholarship is first, then these highly self motivated scholars deserve recognition also. Including a new dimension with diverse scholars to our group could only enrich us both. We need to think outside the lines with our mission to recognize and encourage scholarship among two year students and provide opportunity for development of leadership and service by coming together by buggy, rail, air or electronic means. Sure, an electronic hug is not like "the real thing" but pictures sent by electronic means of local, regional and international events could "say 100 words" of encouragement to meet face to face for the next event. "An intellectual climate... for lively fellowship for (many) scholars... for exchange of ideas and ideals". You bet!! (Or I didn't send nor did you receive this email!!)
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Steve Collins, Advisor, Mu Delta Chapter, Kansas City Community College, KS
The question of the week actually raised several issues:
Is the concept of a "virtual chapter" consistent with Phi Theta Kappa's mission? Is the value of Phi Theta Kappa membership limited to only those who can attend face to face meeting on campus? By chartering a chapter, does the Society encourage impersonalization? Would a student who because of a job and family commitments enrolls in CECC accept membership in a "virtual chapter?"
Hello, my name is Steve Collins. I'm an advisor to the Mu Delta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Kansas City Kansas Community College. My response is an enthusiastic Yes! Yes Phi Theta Kappa should charter virtual chapters. Here's why.
First, remember that the online option to chapter membership is only one of the ways to participate, not a substitute for face to face membership in a chapter at a physical campus such as ours. We should not think of the idea as 'either/or' but rather 'in addition to.' When I tell you enthusiastically that yes I would highly recommend a virtual chapter, I am saying that Phi Theta Kappa should practice inclusion by opening up membership to as many potential members as possible. Membership in the organization provides an important identity that should be extended to those who are not able to physically attend meetings, but none the less participate through their local actions in one or more of the four areas of activity offered in the organization. The fact that a person may not be able to physically attend meetings should not discourage students from attempting to attain Phi Theta Kappa goals. In so far as Phi Theta Kappa's mission is to initiate as many students as possible to the organization goals and objectives, online chapters or what you have called virtual chapters are a natural part of the new millennium, are they not? They certainly enlarge the scope of the organization. Virtual meeting rooms in which networking, planning, sharing ideas and aspirations are open to students widely dispersed physically can enrich the mix of ideas and strengthen the goals of Phi Theta Kappa. Also, one basic advantage to virtual chapters is the asynchronous nature of 'meetings' in which a meeting could occur over a period of several days which provide people an opportunity to think about what other members have said before they respond. No more scheduling hassles with virtual meetings, because you could reply to a virtual discussion at 3 A.M. sitting in your home in your night clothes. Convenience is one of the calling cards of online asynchronous communication. Remember that a virtual Phi Theta Kappa member is a member 'anywhere, anytime.' Shouldn't this excite us, make us eager to establish such chapters? I think so.
Second, as an online instructor for the last three years I find that a high percentage of online students are high achieving individuals with very high standards and levels of initiative. They are intelligent, caring, articulate and want to be involved in activities and goals central to Phi Theta Kappa, but are bound by employment, familial, disability, or other constraints which make face to face participation impossible. How could we possibly ignore the new technology? We use it in every aspect of our work, professional, educational, and recreational lives. Why should Phi Theta Kappa say no at just the moment when everyone is saying yes to email and Internet communication? Additionally, think of the scholarly goal of improving written communication. The very nature of online communication is writing. All the thought and contemplation associated with asynchronous communication means that by virtue of joining the chapter, students are going to gain valuable practice improving their writing skills.
Third, I want you to think about the concept of impersonalization. The concept congers up images of uncaring, cold, non-communicative and institutionally sterile settings and non-persons. From my experience in online instruction I find just the opposite is the case. When seen as an addition to and not a replacement for face to face communication, online or virtual chapter relationships can very often be closer, more meaningful, and more open than face to face encounters. I have never met an online student that I didn't have extensive and meaningful written communications with from the very first week of the course. If you look at your own experience in emailing friends and coworkers you have numerous examples of how this technology brought you closer to people, opened up new avenues of communication, and led to huge networks of cooperation that simply weren't possible before. No, online communication is not inherently impersonal. I believe it to be highly personal and motivating when intentionally used in that way. The fact that some usage of the Internet and email communications are not imaginative or creative is not a fact of the technology but of those who have failed to use it in progressive ways. We could make it work for the organization, it's goals and objectives, if we determined to do so.
Finally, in answer to the question of whether online students would accept membership in virtual chapters, do we have anything to loose in trying? I think it would be well worth the attempt. I would be interested in talking with others who would like to discuss this issue. Thanks for the opportunity to express some thoughts about the new technology!
P.S. Another way of modeling thinking about this situation is to think about the concept of 'virtual membership' in what is primarily a face to face or 'onground' chapter. By this I mean that each onground chapter might think of having a 'virtual component' or an online component that might be called a 'virtual members council' which is part of an existing onground chapter, but whose member participation is through it's email or Internet connection to the onground chapter via the council.
In other words we might think not only of 'virtual chapters', but 'virtual membership councils' within onground chapters. You've really come up with an intriguing issue this week. Thanks again.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Tanya Dee Sullivan, Eta Omega Chapter, Copiah-Lincoln Community College, MS
Yes, I think that virtual students should be recognized as well as other students. They are taking the same courses as those who are attending school for the same degree, correct?
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Julie Evans, Omega Gamma Chapter, El Paso Community College, TX
I do not agree with the concept of a virtual chapter. I think the whole concept of Phi Theta Kappa is to get the student involved with the community, as well as to offer programs to develop leadership. Quite frankly, I cannot see how this could be accomplished through a virtual chapter. I do however, see a use, as well as a need, for the virtual chapter in the alumni area. I think many alumni would take notice and participate in a virtual chapter because they could maintain that connection without having to take time from their "real world" jobs. I think it would also be useful on the alumni level for networking when one graduates and needs that little extra help to find a good job.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Phyllis Benoit, Alpha Upsilon Omicron Chapter, New Hampshire Technical Institute, NH
Several members of our chapter take some courses on-line. Although the Internet is a great tool for reaching out, it cannot replace the interaction members need. Certainly meeting could be held on-line but our members decided this week to have seminars to discuss our service activities, just to reflect and to pat everyone on the back and say, "great job."
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Frederic W. Strohl, Alpha Omicron Alpha Chapter, Lehigh Carbon Community College, PA
The concept of a VIRTUAL CHAPTER elicits a deep emotional response. The very thought of change can be devastating to some people. New ideas and ideals will enhance Phi Theta Kappa and prevent stagnation and deterioration. I believe that membership to Phi Theta Kappa should be made available to all those who meet the criteria. Yes, we should develop some type of inclusive process for virtual chapters. If using the Internet is the best choice for some people to partake in the education process, let us recognize and support it. Becoming a member of Phi Theta Kappa should never create a burden for anyone.
The Hallmarks, by their very nature dictate that we should be the leaders in promoting scholarship, fellowship and service. We would be doing a disservice to ourselves as well as to the virtual members by denying them the opportunity to participate in Phi Theta Kappa.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Susan Konold, Zeta Epsilon Chapter, Westark College, AR
Yes!! It won't be long before students will attend class by turning on their computers instead of commuting to school. Phi Theta Kappa should be geared up for the change.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Adawndria Goodin, Zeta Xi Chapter, Wharton County Junior College, TX
I think a virtual chapter is in line with the Society's mission for the 21st Century. As the Internet becomes a larger part of lives, we must strive to reach out to those who receive their education via the Internet. Membership in the society should not be contingent upon the ability to meet face-to-face with members, but should be contingent upon one's ability and desire to achieve and contribute to the Society and the world.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Gloria Hines, Advisor, Alpha Gamma Omega Chapter, Valencia Community College, FL
While I can understand a student not attending meetings due to job and other responsibilities, I must say with respect to those students they are going to miss the concept of all the Hallmarks working together to promote a special and worthwhile part of this societies goals and vision: where does the leadership come in, service and fellowship? I can image the leadership through work related projects, however I feel the whole concept of engaging in the total experience will be lost in the on-line air!!!! If this does come to pass I truly believe that some adjustment would have to be made, such as are these students going to be benefit from the personal growth of the Phi Theta Kappa experience? And are they going to vie for the scholarship with others that are totally engaged in Phi Theta Kappa? What about attending leadership conferences and regional events? IF they can not attend meetings what makes us think they will attend anything else or become involved with this learning experience? Just my view as an alumni that held down a full time job, a part time student, was an officer and now an advisor believe in the system of this organization and I would hate to see the ideals of our Hallmarks be thrown aside to meet the needs of one that can not attend meetings.
Posted 10/27/1999
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Matthew C. Koeppen, Alpha Eta Psi Chapter, Suffolk County Community College, NY
The idea of a virtual chapter is appealing, but does however have many milestones to cross. Phi Theta Kappa would be accessible in otherwise impossible circumstances for some people. This is great and should be so, but I must raise the question of fellowship. This, being such a strong value within our society, will in itself become breached.
Chapter meetings online? I guess so...It would work with the right group, but what about the togetherness that we all share? Would the virtual chapters only have contact with other members/chapters during regional events? How would someone from California and someone from New York attending the same virtual school, be in the same chapter for regional events? The list goes on...
Just by looking briefly at only one area, many questions arise that must be dealt with before this could ever be implemented. I feel that the virtual chapters should be put on hold for present time, pending a thorough research. I do think that this is a viable area to delve into, but not without doing what we do best...being smart about things.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Angel Pritchett, Theta Chi Chapter, Pensacola Junior College, FL
Participating in meetings and events is not a requirement for membership. Students should not be denied the opportunity to be involved in our extraordinary organization because they take classes over the Internet rather than in the classroom. The mission of Phi Theta Kappa is to recognize and encourage the academic achievement of two-year college students and provide opportunities for individual growth and development through honors, leadership and service programming. Many of these things can be accomplished online. The members of the chapter will address any difficulties that these "virtual chapters" may face in providing opportunities for individual growth and development through the four Hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa. Their ability to implement comprehensive programming will be judged, as the rest of the chapters, through participation in the Five Star Chapter Development Program should they choose to participate.
Although the lack of traditional social interaction does concern me, I have quickly learned that members of Phi Theta Kappa are usually not traditional students by any means. It is not Phi Theta Kappa's responsibility to determine how many problems these chapters may face or how comprehensive their programming may be. It is, however, the mission of Phi Theta Kappa to provide eligible students with the challenge of seeing their chapter thrive and the opportunity to develop in the four hallmarks of leadership, fellowship, service, and scholarship.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Jenny Mullican, Rho Sigma Chapter, Jones County Junior College, MS
I don't think that people taking classes over the Internet should be included in Phi Theta Kappa. I'm not saying that they should not be praised for their outstanding accomplishments, but Phi Theta Kappa is an organization based on so much more than grades. It stands for leadership, fellowship, and social commitments. People gaining admittance into Phi Theta Kappa over the computer could not be included in these areas. I belong to the Phi Theta Kappa chapter at Jones County Junior College in Mississippi. We work hard in the community and around campus. It would not be fair to us if the people on the Internet are included and receive the same benefits and recognition without all of the extra work. I do think they could be included if they are given limitations on their membership.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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Allan Wilcox, Rho Pi Chapter, Phoenix College, AZ
What an exciting concept. What a fabulous way to reach out to physically, or hearing challenged persons - the ultimate in community service.
The "virtual chapter" should be implemented immediately.
In Arizona, Rio Salado Community College has courses that can be taken via the Internet. They should be included as part of the "Virtual Chapter".
Fabulous Idea.
Posted Date 10/27/1999
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James T. Leist, Pi Phi Chapter, Clatsop Community College, OR
Now to say that a member of a virtual chapter may never attend a meeting is surely evidence of a closed mind. In the not to distant future I can envision chapters across the country having their chapter, regional and honor meetings via videoconferencing. This would definitively cut the cumbersome cost of attending conferences along with allowing more members who could not make it to a traditional meeting to be active. The important aspect is that the chapter still has activities as a group, such as reading to children, even if the children are in Asia. PTK is part of the college if the colleges evolve so should PTK.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Joanne M. Heaphy, Alpha Epsilon Epsilon, Delaware Technical & Community College, Owens Campus, DE
Virtual Chapters should be accepted into Phi Theta Kappa. As the Technology Coordinator and Computer Literacy Instructor for the Delaware Adult Education statewide online high school program (the first in the Nation to be statewide), I have first hand knowledge of the challenges and academic excellence of "online students." Even at the high school level they truly demonstrate the four hallmarks of Phi Theta Kappa.
On the college level the technology benefits that virtual chapters could offer to "traditional" chapters would be a positive step into the next millennium.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Ruth Rocker, Alpha Etta Alpha, Rose State College, OK
I believe that chartering a virtual club for those who attend online classes is in order. Just because these people cannot physically attend classes on a campus in no way detracts from their achievements academically. If the mission of PTK is to promote scholarship, then by all means, award these people for their achievements as well.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Sabrina Sue Hearth, Alpha Rho Sigma Chapter, Ivy Tech State College, IN
I am a new member, having just been inducted in September, but I do not think that a virtual chapter is a good idea. I had the opportunity to attend our Fall Leadership Conference earlier this month, and I don't see how you would get the same experience in a virtual chapter. The friendships that you make cannot be made on a computer. The workshops that were presented at the conference were hands on as well, and that is something that just wouldn't work.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Elizabeth Edwards, Psi Gamma Chapter, Scottsdale Community College, AZ
While it is important to recognize scholars in every venue, I think that a "virtual chapter" would be inconsistent with Phi Theta Kappa's mission. Part of our mission is to create a COMMUNITY of scholars who together pursue scholarship, leadership, service, and fellowship. I believe that it is impossible to simulate that community through a "virtual chapter." Such a chapter would not be able to adequately participate in bettering their college community, their community, or to provide personal support for each other. In order to really do service, I think that it is important to focus on giving of oneself - I believe that this requires personal touch, such a distant chapter would not allow for personal service or fellowship.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Theresa A. Miller, Alpha Tau Sigma Chapter, Ivy Tech State College, IN
Here is a copy of an editorial that I posted in our most recent newsletter, The Alpha Tau Signal (Oct. 15):
Virtual Chapters
At the recent town meeting that was held during the Evansville Fall Leadership Conference, we were told that Phi Theta Kappa is exploring the idea of allowing virtual chapters and were wondering if they could work without the members actually being together physically.
When asking myself this question, I looked closely at my friends that I have through Phi Theta Kappa and know that it would be hard if I couldn't see them. But then I looked at another group of friends that I have known longer than my Phi Theta Kappa friends. There's Diana in Kansas, Teri who is currently in Ohio, Michelle in California, Denise in New York, Alice in Texas, Liz in Maine, Jean Marie and Donna in Washington D.C., Suzanne in Florida, Jennifer in Pennsylvania, Stephen John who is in England, and many more that space prevents me from mentioning. Most of them I met years ago when we all belonged to the same cyber group. That group has fallen by the wayside to be replaced by two others but the people have not changed. At least not those that I am closest too.
We came together out of a common interest but stay together because of something that has grown out of it . . . friendship. I am closer to this group of people than I am anyone else. They have become members of my extended family. Although we aren't able to be near each other, we're together all the time. We have a regular meeting every Saturday in a chat room we've set up for the group, we have a couple of email lists that would boggle the minds of those who are happy with one or two emails a day from friends. During a typical week, email volume from the lists is about 200 messages and it's not uncommon when we get started to have that many messages in a day. And then there is this wonderful invention from AOL that keeps us even closer, the Instant Message that allows us to talk with each like we would if we were in the same room. Of course there are some in the group that telephone each other enough to make the phone companies really happy every month. I interact with this group of friends more than I do most of my family and friends that live in the same area that I do. The members of this group are always there for me, whether it be a shoulder to cry on, someone to vent my frustrations too and to share my joy. I would be lost without them.
Virtual groups are brought together usually by a common interest that can grow into some wonderful friendships. So, do I think a Virtual Chapter would succeed? Definitely. Phi Theta Kappa would be the common interest that would bring them together, the same as it does a regular chapter. The friendship and fellowship that would follow will keep them together probably longer than those in a regular chapter who seem to lose contact with each other after graduation. You see in the virtual world it doesn't matter that you're no longer taking classes together, you can see each other daily even after you've graduated and moved on, all it takes is a computer. And yes, virtual hugs are possible and sometimes they mean just a little bit more because you know the person really means it.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Jeanette Lindsey, Rho Tau Chapter, Tallahassee Community College, FL
If I am understanding this concept correctly, I believe that the establishment of virtual chapters is a favorable concept; however, I am disappointed that this idea is limited to benefit only those students seeking a degree through course work on-line. I am a part-time student, and due to my working a full time job, it is impossible for me to attend Phi Theta Kappa meetings on campus. I have been a member since January 1999, and I must question the benefits that I have gained from this membership. I am aware that it will be an honor to graduate as a member of this honorary program...but what benefits are offered to me at this point and time? I am not inferring that there are no benefits, but my concern is that because students cannot become involved as members, then it is difficult for us to learn of, and reap any of the available benefits. Therefore, I agree that the value of membership in Phi Theta Kappa is limited to those who can attend face to face meetings on campus. Would this encourage impersonalization, it could, but it really depends on how you look at the big picture. Is it more beneficial to not communicate with students who cannot attend face to face meetings, or is it more beneficial to keep the lines of communication open with students whether it is face to face, or via a virtual chapter. There are benefits to be gained all around; chapters would receive new ideas and input from members that are not able to attend the face to face meetings, and members could receive information that they never knew existed. As I stated at the beginning, if my understanding of this concept is correct then please consider broadening this program so that it may benefit part-time students who work during the day, and go to school at night. Don't shut us out!
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Brenda Spagnola-Wilson, Omega Sigma Chapter, Houston Community College, TX
I believe that "virtual chapters" would be a wonderful way to introduce even more people in into our society. Think of all of those who could contribute, who have so much to give, yet may never have the chance because they do not belong to a chapter or have no chance to join one because of their schedules. A virtual chapter could give these people the opportunity to learn and contribute in a way they have not been able to so far. No one should have to miss out on becoming a Phi Theta Kappan simply because they are unable to join the more traditional chapter. A virtual chapter would be yet one more way that we, as a society, can reach out to more and more people.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Susan LaMore, Advisor, Alpha Delta Eta Chapter, Kankakee Community College, IL
Although I believe that the virtual students should be recognized for their academic achievement, Phi Theta Kappa has always meant much more than just grade point recognition. I agree that they could, through electronic communication, engage in scholarly research and discussion and conduct electronic forums as a form of fellowship. But, how could they engage in community service, electronically? If virtual chapters were allowed, I would think they should not be mainstreamed but placed in a special category, which may result in special requirements for their type of chapter.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Rebecca Baltz, Alpha Omega Beta Chapter, St. Petersburg Junior College, TN
YES!! I think a virtual chapter will become a necessity as more & more colleges offer online programs. I, myself, participate in such a program and I have found that online classes are NOT impersonal. In fact, the student often has more contact, with the instructor, as well as other students, because of the extra effort required to complete class requirements, via long-distance. Online is merely a different route to a college degree, and for many, the only one available.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Sandra Hershberger, Alpha Omega Omicron Chapter, Kenai Peninsula College, AK
Yes. Definitely. Sponsoring a virtual chapter is in keeping with PTK's mission. Distance education is a hot topic right now, and programs are growing at a phenomenal rate. I think more and more students will be taking advantage of these programs and they should be offered the same opportunities as traditional students, including the privilege of belonging to an honor society that recognizes their hard work.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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Beverly Raznoff, Advisor, Beta Alpha Omicron Chapter, Truett-McConnell College – Toccoa, GA
We are experiencing a big push at our college to use technology in every way possible. Technology has done wonderful things for us and will continue to do so. But I am not convinced that it will ever take the place of human contact. The "virtual chapter" would eliminate face-to-face interaction. So much is gained when we experience each other's being. I very much depend on my e-mail, but this correspondence is with people I know and/or have business with. I cannot imagine being the advisor of a group of non-faces on a computer screen. I cannot imagine a hug via the computer. I'm not sure the Society's mission would be well served by the virtual chapter.
Posted Date 10/20/1999
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