Moorpark College students taking online classes could see new AI policies and expanded zero-cost textbook options under five draft goals the college's distance education committee outlined Sept. 23.

The Online Learning and Educational Technology (OLET) Committee listed the goals in meeting minutes published on the college district's board site. The committee's record labels all five as drafts.

One goal calls for establishing AI competence and literacy standards, including discipline-specific policies for online instruction and support for AI-related professional development. Moorpark College held an "Open Dialogue: AI in Education" session at its Feb. 3 Flex Day, according to the college's professional development calendar. The draft goal would formalize that work into policy.

The four other draft goals address online student engagement and retention, equity gaps in distance learning, faculty training on accessibility requirements and a new Distance Education Summit. The summit, planned in partnership with the Program Professional Development Committee, would serve the full Ventura County Community College District, which includes Moorpark, Oxnard and Ventura colleges. A Flex Day session promoting the summit is already scheduled for March 11, 2027.

The equity goal specifically targets expanding Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) materials and pathways. Faculty received ZTC program updates at an Aug. 5 Flex Day session covering current offerings, resources for expanding ZTC across disciplines and tips for developing ZTC courses.

The OLET Committee advises the college on distance education planning and accreditation, including reviewing student success and equity data and monitoring compliance with state and national regulations.

Attendees at the Sept. 23 meeting included Distance Education Coordinator Mindy Case, student representative David Aronov, DEETAC representatives Deborah Brackley and Laura Knight, and ACMM representative Shirley Ruiz. No timeline for finalizing the goals was given.

Nationally, online enrollment continues to grow. Nearly 54 percent of college students took at least some distance education courses in fall 2024, up from 36 percent in 2019, according to U.S. Department of Education data reported by Inside Higher Ed.

The OLET Committee's next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 28.