Chancellor's Commission on Extension

6. Information and Communications Technology Information and communications technologies in a high-speed digital infrastructure are fundamental to the future of the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension System.
In the early 1990s, U of I Extension appropriately made a strong commitment to integrate digital technologies into information and education program delivery, communications, and organizational management. While the same technology goals and objectives apply today, the passage of time, the emergence of new and improved technologies, and changes in organizational structure require a fresh look at connectivity through technology and its application in Extension information and education programs, in communications, and in organization management and administration.

Recommendations

U of I Extension should build on its strong commitment to utilize state-of-the-art digital information and communications technologies for organization communications and management. In addition, these technologies should be pursued for information and education program delivery in all four core program areas where applicable.
With advances in information and communications technologies continuing at an ever-increasingly rapid rate, U of I Extension should build on its successful efforts to deliver programs on the use of modern information technology to Illinois citizens, particularly those in rural areas, forming appropriate partnerships in developing and delivering these programs.
Local and Regional Extension offices across Illinois should be equipped and connected through a high-speed digital infrastructure, including high-bandwidth Internet connectivity, cutting-edge desktop applications, multimedia computer-based conferencing, and asynchronous learning applications, with access to satellite downlink capabilities and successor technologies at Regional offices.
Dependence on advanced information and communication digital technologies for the connectivity necessary for effectiveness and relevance in the 21st century requires U of I Extension to have ongoing operating support dedicated to the continuous maintenance and upgrading of the high-speed digital infrastructure.
To service and support the digital infrastructure in local, regional, and UIUC campus facilities, U of I Extension should establish technical support capabilities in each of the five regions as well as on the UIUC campus.
The University of Illinois, as well as the College of ACES, should give every consideration to opportunities afforded by U of I Extension's investment in an advanced high-speed digital infrastructure for applications in research, academic programs, and public service throughout Illinois.