In recent days I have spoken with two institutions who are hoping to ramp up small but existing online programs. What I found interesting is that there continues to be a growing appreciation and acceptance for online delivery. And that’s all good. At the same time, there is still apprehension and opposition among the ranks of some traditional academicians. As a result, these two institutions are focusing most of their attention and time on the academic side of things. And that’s not all good. Read the rest of this entry »
If you are considering enrolling in an online degree program from an accredited institution then you are probably already convinced that the program is convenient and flexible. If the institution is worth its salt, you should also receive the same quality of education that you would receive there or somewhere else in a traditional campus setting. I realize that it’s a benefit for you to know that you can study anytime and anywhere - no need to be bound to class meeting schedules, commuting, or being away from family. However, unless you have the two primary characteristics of most successful online learners, you could be heading out on a difficult journey.
What are those characteristics: Read the rest of this entry »
If anything good is coming out of this recession, it has to be that working adults are heading back to school to improve their skills or finish their degrees, and most are doing it online. Over 3.94 million people were enrolled in at least one online course in Fall 2007, up 12.9% from 2006, according to studies by Sloan Consortium. Interestingly enough, overall enrollment in higher education during the same period only grew 1.6%. The new online enrollment numbers, which come out in November, are expected to be higher.
Student support services, which includes Financial Aid, is a key component to student success and retention and must be a major focus of any institution. What do I mean by “major focus”? An institution, whether online or brick and mortar, must devote the necessary financial and human resources, along with the proper oversight, to proactively care for its students.
This recent article regarding Bridgepoint Education’s troubles clearly shows its priority was on student enrollment and not on student services.
http://news.moneycentral.msn.com/provider/providerarticle.aspx?feed=AP&date=20090904&id=10366024