Q. What is Microsoft Official Distance Learning (MODL)?

A. This exciting new learning platform blends online classroom training, live discussion, real-world-based scenarios, and self-directed study into one rich and accessible educational experience - delivered right to your desktop. Microsoft Official Distance Learning (MODL) courses use a proven instructional methodology that attracts professionals who want the interactivity of the classroom and the flexibility of an online course - exclusively presented by authorized Microsoft Certified Partners for Learning Solutions. Therefore, you can be confident that you are being supported by a qualified organization that meets strict requirements to deliver or provide a valuable distance learning experience.

Q. Is MODL a replacement for Classroom Training?

A. No. MODL offers a solution for professionals with specific education needs and constrained schedules or budgets.

Q. How is MODL different from Microsoft E-Learning?

A. Microsoft E-learning is a self-directed learning experience. MODL is an instructor-facilitated experience for those who prefer group interaction, instructor support, and independent study. Both MODL and Microsoft E-Learning provide a flexible means to acquire knowledge and skills on Microsoft products and technologies.

Q. Who is MODL for?

A. MODL courses are for IT professionals and developers who want relevant, hands-on training that is job-role-specific, and the convenience of anytime/anyplace learning.

Q. What are the benefits of learning with MODL?

A. For students, it's easier to learn, practice, and experience new skills by using multiple hands-on scenarios. Class sessions are spread out over time to allow for review and research using course recordings.

• Students benefit from the following:
  • One-on-one time with one of our expert Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCT)
  • Rich peer-to-peer interaction and support
  • Real-world scenarios and exercises that you can work through at your own pace
  • Hundreds of interactive activities in each course and game-like lab environments
  • Lots of time between sessions to study and absorb course material
  • Individualized assessments that include detailed instructor feedback and scored results
• For organizations, MODL offers schedule flexibility and cost savings compared to traditional Classroom Training, without sacrificing the effectiveness of a dedicated instructor.
• For Enterprise customers, MODL customizes timing and delivery of course modules to meet the unique needs of your organization by:
  • Providing affordable, unified training to a geographically dispersed workforce
  • Ensuring employees don't spend billable hours attending consecutive days of classroom training
  • Enhancing your employee productivity with high quality training

Q. What technologies do MODL courses cover?

A. Currently, courses are being developed for Microsoft products and technologies including Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft .NET, Microsoft Visual Studio, and Windows Vista.

Q. How much do MODL courses cost?

A. Course fees vary by Microsoft Certified Partners for Learning Solutions, but most are comparable to other Official Microsoft Learning products that are offered by Learning Solutions partners.

Q. How long are MODL courses?

A. Most MODL courses range from four to ten sessions over two to five weeks. For a complete listing of MODL training available at MAX, visit the MODL Course Offering page.

Q. What MODL courses are currently available?

A. The MODL courses that are currently available include the following; Managing and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment, Managing a Microsoft Server 2003 Environment, and Maintaining a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Environment. Additional courses will be released in the coming months. To learn more about upcoming courses, visit the MODL Course Release Schedule.

Q. Are MODL courses available from the Microsoft.com Web site?

A. No. MODL courses are exclusively available through MODL-authorized Microsoft Certified Partners for Learning Solutions, who employ MODL-authorized Microsoft Certified Trainers (MCTs), the premier technical and instructional experts on Microsoft products, technologies, and solutions. MCTs are the only individuals that Microsoft authorizes to deliver training that is based on Official Microsoft Learning Products.

Q. How can I find out more about MODL courses?

A. For more information on Microsoft Official Distance Learning, contact education@riverhd.com or (412) 391-7473.