IP: WESTERN GOVERNORS U. SEEKS AN $8-MILLION FEDERAL APPROPRIATION

[Dave Farber <farber () cis upenn edu>]

[pork is pork djf]
In order to further the development of Western Governors 
University, backers of the online school have asked Congress for 
an $8 million federal appropriation. Governors from several of 
the 18 states participating in WGU are working with Congress to 
have the money appropriated in the next fiscal year. Because the 
initial money for WGU was contributed by companies and 
foundations, as well as a donation of $100,000 from each 
participating state, this is the first time WGU has requested 
federal funds. The online university, which has had a lower 
initial enrollment than predicted, provides both a central Web 
site in which students can enter online classes offered by other 
universities and a system in which students earn degrees through 
standardized tests and portfolio projects. WGU's Jeff Edwards 
says the funds will be used to develop curriculum, hire academic 
advisors, and construct local WGU centers where students could 
access their online classes or take tests. 
(Chronicle of Higher Education Online 05/19/99)