Investing in On-line Learning: Potenttial Benefits and Limitations

Abstract

Many universities and colleges have started to invest heavily in on-line teaching. Why are institutions across the world doing this? Is the investment justified? This paper attempts to answer these questions by drawing on results from three Canadian case studies. The studies indicate that on-line learning can open up new markets. The flexibility of on-line learning makes it particularly appropriate for mature, "lifelong" learners. Students appreciate the opportunity to work collaboratively and closely with teachers and colleagues from across the world. Under the right conditions, on-line learning can be cost effective and even profit-making. However, financial management, technical support for faculty, allocation of revenues to those units that take the risk, professionalism, and a team approach to course development and delivery are all critical factors for success. Résumé: Plusieurs universités et collèges ont commencé à investir considérablement dans l'enseignement en ligne. Pourquoi des institutions autour du monde sont-elles en train de faire ceci? Peut-on justifier un tel investissement? Cet article essaie de répondre à ces questions en recourant aux résultats de trois études de cas canadiennes. Ces études indiquent que l'apprentissage en ligne peut ouvrir de nouveau marchés. Sa flexibilité le rend particulièrement approprié pour les étudiants plus âgés ayant des responsabilités de travail ou de famille. Les étudiants en général apprécient l'occasion de collaborer de près avec des enseignants et des collègues autour du monde. Dans les bonnes conditions, l'apprentissage en ligne peut être rentable et même profitable. Cependant, plusieurs facteurs critiques sont nécessaires pour rencontrer le succès, y compris une bonne gestion fiscale, un appui technique pour le corps enseignant, l'allocation de revenus à ces unités qui prennent un risque, le professionnalisme, et un bon esprit d'équipe dans le développement et l'enseignement des cours.

Foreign Language Teaching and Learning in a Reading Comprehension and Writing Online Module: A Higher Education Analysis

“…Online tutoring not only benefits the students economically by reducing the expenses of transportation to and from the campus, but also the expenses of books and other learning materials may be cut. The university does not receive an additional income for this type of course; however, Bartolic-Zlomislic & Bates (1999) affirm that previous studies have demonstrated that online courses are "at least as cost-effective as conventional courses" (Economic Benefits section, para. 7).…”

“…According to Bartolic-Zlomislic & Bates (1999), online teaching reduces the levels of anxiety in the learner, as the anonymity granted by this mode can encourage greater participation even from the shy ones (Educational Benefits section, para. 2).…”

Beyond the Reference Desk: A Study on the Effectiveness of Low-Cost Distance Library Services at California State University San Marcos

“…According to Bartolic-Zlomislic and Bates (1999), initial expenditures on new equipment, software, and training can take a substantial amount of time and money to implement effectively. They reveal that start-up costs of online programs are often prohibitive for many libraries.…”

Guidelines to the edge: Integrating information and communication technologies in education

“…Individuals in the workforce will need to upgrade their skills constantly, and their current knowledge base needs to continually evolve to keep up with rapidly changing technology (Muzio 1999). Providing opportunities to complete online graduate degrees will enhance the opportunities for these mid-career learners the opportunity to work and go to school (Bartolic-Zlomislic & Bates 1999).…”