The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is non-profit is dedicated to transforming distance education by focusing directly on instructor development. We believe that well-prepared educators are the foundation of effective online learning experiences.

Our mission is to enhance the quality of distance learning by empowering instructors with the tools, training, and resources they need to deliver effective and engaging online education. By improving instructor capabilities, we aim to create a superior learning experience for students worldwide.

Our association connects the people, practices, and policies that focus on achieving the highest potential of distance and digital learning, education, and training. If you serve learners at a distance, we serve you.

We are the premier professional membership organization designed to advocate and support the needs of Distance Education (DE) leaders. Our resources support more than 100,000 members in the DE professional community who serve education, business, health, and government.

Founded in 1987, we were the first nonprofit distance learning association in the United States. Today we continue to research and share best practices in the utilization of distance learning modalities both nationally and internationally.

USDLA offers its members  networking opportunities through its annual conference, monthly/weekly webinars, and discussion with  peers,  thought leaders, and researchers in the field of distance education.  Volunteer opportunities include committee membership, support to local state chapter, and/or selection to the Board of Directors. USDLA  represents  constituencies in education, business, health, and government nationally and internationally as its voice continues to influence policy development, research, leadership, and best practices in Distance Education.

USDLA  provides opportunities for companies that support the distance education community to participate as corporate members and sponsors. Please visit our Sponsorship Page .

Membership choices include Individual as well as Organizational membership. Please contact membership@usdla.org or visit our Membership Page

NOTE:  Membership in USDLA does NOT constitute Accreditation or Certification in Distance Education/Learning.

HOWEVER, USDLA certifies institutions and educational providers who meet its Quality Standards for distance learning. The approximately 91 standards highlight best practices at all levels of education and training and are adaptable to a variety of needs and situations. For more information please visit Higher Education Certification

Volunteer Today – The USDLA is always looking for individuals who wish to make a difference in the world of digital/distance learning. To learn more contact Valary Oleinik at voleinik@usdla.org.

Goals

  • Leadership: To provide national leadership in the field of Digital and Distance Learning (DDL)
  • Advocate: To advocate and promote the use of DDL
  • Information: To provide current information on DDL
  • Policy: To represent the DDL community before government policy and regulatory bodies
  • Partnerships: To serve and support the state, consortium and individual organizations that have common goals with USDLA
  • Recognition: To provide annual recognition and awards of outstanding achievements in DDL
  • International: To achieve a global leadership role through worldwide partnerships
  • Access and Equity: To promote equity and access to lifelong learning through DDL
  • Diversity: To promote diversity in our organization and its programs