DETERMINING E-LEARNING COMPETENCIES Using Centra to Collect Focus Group Data

This article shares the results of a needs assessment conducted to guide the development of an e-learning certificate program for implementation at Texas A&M University. Participants were asked to provide input regarding the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to work as an e-learning specialist. The qualitative data was collected using CentraTM as an interactive communication tool for discussion with respondents across the United States. The study also used theoretical triangulation to compare findings from this study to other studies conducted on distance education competencies. The findings reemphasize the importance of key competencies required by an e-learning specialist.