As the popularity of online
courses continues to increase, so do the developments that make it more
convenient, more accessible, and a richer experience for everyone involved. Since
we first started our online programs in 2000, the online learning industry
has undergone many different changes.
At Peirce, we seek to not just
stay on top of these developments, but to stay ahead of them. It’s how we’ve
been named to U.S. World News and Report’s list of best online bachelor’s
degree programs for three years in a row.
Through this journey we’ve observed
what’s worked and what’s working now, giving us an insight into what’s
impacting future developments in online learning. Below we discuss three of
them.
The increase of enrollment due to convenience and
accessibility.
As technology continues to
erase time and distance limitations, online learning has made it possible for
millions of students to be able to take college courses who otherwise couldn’t.
Since many students are working, raising families, and have other obligations,
committing to being in a specific place at a specific time for the duration of
a semester presents a significant challenge for them. Fortunately, these
students have found that online classes provide the flexibility they need to be
able to attend class while still managing their other responsibilities.
This comes as more and more
people are recognizing that the competitive job market demands they update
their skills and credentials to get ahead. They’re now able to work while
taking online courses to advance their careers. With the constant changes in
nearly every field, this trend is expected to increase for quite some time.
For other students, online
courses are helping them to complete their degree faster. Even those who are
able to take courses on campus may not be able to do so at the time the course
is offered. Online classes give them the opportunity to still be able to take
that class instead of waiting until the next semester when their schedule may
work better with the class times.
Clearly, the multiple
benefits of increased convenience and accessibility has currently and will
continue to contribute to the growth of online learning.
Technology.
The continued advancements in technology will have a large
impact for online learning. For example, faster broadband connections now make
it easier for students and instructors to upload and download large multimedia files.
This also makes it possible for different models and simulations to be
presented online just as they are in the traditional classroom. Similarly
students are also able to more easily create their own digital content as part
of a class project. All of these factors will continue to contribute to a more
innovative and interactive online learning experience.
Improvements in education
delivery.
Not all advancements in online learning will be technology
related. Feedback and insight from this new wave of online learners will be
incorporated to make the quality of education better, both online and in the classroom.
As more instructors teach online and more students continue to enroll, new
insight is gained about how to best deliver the most effective education.
At Peirce, we’re fortunate to have the entire college
supporting our online
learning programs. From the college president to adjunct professors,
everyone is constantly looking for improvements in content, structure, and
delivery. When an improvement is identified, that improvement is made across
the board to all online classes that we offer. This approach pushes our entire
online learning program forward rather than incremental improvements to a
particular course. Similar approaches for the industry in general will continue
to make online learning more effective for both students and instructors
everywhere.
What about you? Have you taken an online class? What’s been
your experience? What do you predict will be the next development in online
education?