The Mel Lloyd Centre in Shelburne has been chosen for the site of the area's first location of elearningnetwork, part of Ontario's Reaching Higher Plan, by which residents can earn accredited diplomas or degrees without commuting to or living at a college or university campus.

Dufferin Community Services Director Dan Best said Tuesday he expects the pilot project of 1,000 square feet would be up and running by next month. Depending on the response, he expects the learning centre would grow from there.

According to a Kincardine news report, a similar project in the Bruce County town attracted 84 students within a short time. A recent report indicated there were about 500 pursuing online courses through the province's then-five elearningnetwork locations - all of which are in smaller communities.

Some of the courses available through elearning might be otherwise available online in any event, but Mr. Best said not all residents have access to high-speed Internet, and most wouldn't have the kind of technology available to them at elearning.

"We provide elearning stations, each equipped with the latest in audio and videoconferencing technology and high-speed Internet to help learners access their programs and courses online," elearning proclaims on its website.

As elearning is funded by the province, students are not charged for the service. They pay their regular tuition for the selected courses, and the tuition is paid directly to the university or college providing the course.

To date, elearning says it has 7,500 courses available through the participation and support of 19 colleges and 15 universities.

Students with home or office access to the necessary technology may choose to register for the courses through elearning. In that event, they would still enjoy the support of the centre.

"If you have access to a computer and an Internet connection at home, you can do the course from home (depending on course requirements).

"Those accessing their courses from home or work can still call on us for support, or to print course material. For people who would prefer to be in an environment conducive to elearning with ready access to a trained professional and a high speed Internet connection, then studying at the nearest elearnnetwork.ca location is the ideal solution," says elearning.

What are the support services?

"A local qualified team member is also available to assist at no charge by providing a range of support services: Access to elearning stations for study and research purposes; Demonstrations of elearning technologies; Research assistance with study options; Support with financial aid, registration and scheduling; Support with using the necessary technology; Support and encouragement throughout course of study; Exam invigilation services; Employment support referrals."

The Mel Lloyd centre is one of 12 locations approved for elearning location construction this summer.