Factors Affecting the Success & Sustainability of Online Learning Programs
Greg Kearsley
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Introduction
Most online learning programs fail to exist more than a few years. Why? What are the factors that affect long-term success?
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Adequate Funding & Resources
Budget for start-up & ongoing costs Marketing funds/staff Development & evaluation of courses Compensation for teaching
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Good Technology Infrastructure
Reliable/Dependable Responsive Technical Support (24/7) Scalable Flexible (Options) Up to Date
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Good Management/Leadership
Planning & coordination Communication Promotion/Cheerleading Political sensitivity
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Teaching Excellence
Dedicated and enthusiastic Responsive to students Comfortable using technology
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Good Staff
Work as team Highly competent Committed to quality Keep up with new developments
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Good Marketing
Well targeted markets Campaigns/events Visibility Credibility
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Good Student Support
Financial aid Counseling (personal/academic) Administrative assistance Technical
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Good Instructional Design
Courses are engaging & motivating Course content is meaningful (relevant & authentic) Courses are easy to update
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Good Institutional Support
Funding Staffing Technology Commitment
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Conclusion
You can’t have everything going for you. But the more favorable factors, the greater the chance that an online learning program will succeed and be sustainable.
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