NEW: DISTANCE LEARNING 2012 STUDY

The demand for distance learning has increased exponentially over the last decade. People continue to take advantage of distance learning that allows them to learn at their convenience. Today, more than 96% of the nation’s colleges and universities offer some form of online learning. In 2005 - 2006, The Sloan Consortium estimated that over 3 million students were enrolled in online university courses and over 700,000 K-12 students took at least one online or blended course. Given the increasingly competitive nature of this field, institutions that offer distance learning must further distinguish themselves to maintain a leading position.

Prospective students are looking for institutions that offer high quality education delivered whenever and wherever they need it. As the potential number of students increases within the various markets, institutions must be on the forefront of providing distance education to multiple audiences. Figure 1 shows the potential audiences and the multiple ways learning can be delivered.

With the continued growth of organizations offering quality online education programs, only those institutions that offer desirable programs will be thriving in the future.

The pioneers in distance education were remarkably successful by simply providing basic courses. The quality of the courses and faculty has always been as important as classes being available in a forum that was convenient to the students. The marketplace for distance learning has evolved and now schools must be recognized leaders in the field to prosper in the next decade. For a promising future in distance education, organizations will require expertise in marketing as well as large financial investments in technology, course development and faculty. Are you prepared to ensure success as students’ demands shift in distance education?

The Distance Learning 2012 Study will examine the necessary steps to ensure success into the next decade. This report will provide universities and corporations with data-driven insight and strategic recommendations on opportunities in the growing distance learning market. The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) and The Hale Group have assembled a group of highly regarded experts in the field of distance learning to address this growing phenomenon of students pursuing nontraditional methods of learning. This study will answer several key questions, laying a framework for future success.

Some of the key questions that will be addressed in the Distance Learning 2012 Study include:

1. How should your institution be positioned for a possible decline in the student population?

2. What are the keys to expanding an existing distance learning program beyond the current geography?

3. How will future advances in technology change the options in which students learn?

4. What will the future impact of government policy be on the distance learning community?

5. What are the current business models in distance education and how successful will they be over the next five years?

The future of distance education is continuing to evolve and institutions must develop “out-of-the-box” opportunities for continued growth in revenue and student enrollment. The Distance Learning 2012 Study will evaluate the necessary steps for institutions and corporations to capitalize on students shifting away from traditional learning environments into avenues that provide convenience and flexibility.

For more information visit: http://www.distancelearning2012.com/