Texas House Bill HB319

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to a distance learning program at The University of Texas at Austin School of Law.

Impact

The legislation aims to expand education opportunities for law students through advanced technological means. By enabling students to participate remotely, the bill directly addresses barriers such as travel distance, which can hinder potential law students from attending a prestigious institution. This could lead to a more diverse student body and increased enrollment, fostering a legal community that better reflects the state's demographic.

Summary

House Bill 319 proposes the establishment of a distance learning program at The University of Texas at Austin School of Law, allowing first-year law students to attend classes remotely from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility to legal education, particularly for students who may face geographical or logistical challenges in attending classes on the main campus in Austin. The program must adhere to accreditation requirements, thus ensuring that the quality of education is maintained.

Contention

While the bill has notable benefits, potential points of contention may arise, particularly around the quality of education delivered through remote learning. Critics may question whether online instruction can truly replicate the experience of traditional in-person classes, especially in disciplines that benefit significantly from direct interaction, such as law. Furthermore, ensuring that sufficient resources are allocated to support the distance learning program will be crucial for its success.