Online Education: The Changing Face Of Higher Education

As the shift from an industrial economy to a knowledge economy advances, the demand for information will continue to rise. With knowledge becoming such an important asset, obtaining information is becoming more of a priority for our society. Higher education is responding to this demand with the use of online education. Technology now provides an avenue to obtain education over the Internet. Time, space, and distance limitations are no longer a deterrent to pursuing new information. As with any new technology, time is needed to refine and determine how to best use it. Online education is no different. In this research project, the author articulates how the underlying fundamentals of teaching and learning do not change because of the media used. Perceptions of both online proponents and opponents are presented together with current research. Finally, information is provided on techniques to convert classroom content to online content, and to develop goals and business plans, including cost, quality control, and techniques to evaluate online programs. Chapter 4 contains the power point presentation used to illustrate these points to participants. In addition, the author includes interviews with three online providers