Online learning and education by Bryan LeBeau

Photo:Bryan LeBeau

Bryan LeBeau, historian and Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of Saint Mary writes, "As an educator, I am often asked for my thoughts on the future of online learning in higher education. As I commonly find that those who ask have already formed an opinion on the subject, I usually keep my response brief."

I think online education is a valuable tool. It is not the “silver bullet” that many think it is. Neither is it likely to replace more traditional forms of education. But when used appropriately – in conveying information appropriate to that medium to that segment of the population best prepared to learn from it – it will add value to our educational efforts.

But why take my word for it, when we now have two comprehensive surveys of more than 1,000 college presidents and more than 2,000 adults.
To begin with, more than three-quarters of college presidents report that their institutions offer online courses – varying from nearly 90 percent of four-year public colleges (slightly higher for two-year public colleges) to 60 percent of four-year private colleges.

Further, they predict substantial growth in online learning; 50 percent predicting that 10 years from now most of their students will take classes online.
College presidents and the general public do not see things quite the same when assessing the value of online education, but then neither do all college presidents. Half of the college presidents surveyed said that online courses provide the same value as courses taken in the classroom.
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Related link
The Digital Revolution and Higher Education

Source: Leavenworth Times