11 Current Trends In Online Learning
While hastily planned remote instruction differs from fully planned online college programs, recent cultural shifts and a growing desire for flexibility have propelled the expansion of online learning, according to education experts. Colleges are now positioned to provide a wider array of options in distance learning. However, developing high-quality online degree programs requires significant time, expertise, and resources.
1. Universities Introducing Fresh Online Offerings
Following a trial period for numerous institutions in recent years, colleges are increasingly confident in expanding their array of degree programs offered virtually, particularly in the realm of undergraduate studies, experts assert. This expansion presents an opportunity for schools to revitalize enrollment in programs facing declining numbers.
Transitioning programs to an online format enables colleges to broaden their reach and reduce dependence on local or regional students to bolster their enrollment figures. Professions that emphasize skill or competency-based learning, such as healthcare and cybersecurity, are expected to gain popularity in the realm of online education.
2. Increasing Number of Colleges Embracing Open Educational Resources
The utilization of open educational resources (OER), which encompass freely available education tools in the public domain or licensed for no-cost use, is on the rise. These resources comprise textbooks, online learning materials, and streaming videos. Experts anticipate that the expansion of OER will parallel the momentum observed in online education.
Public institutions prioritize the affordability of education, and the adoption of open educational resources (OER) contributes significantly to enhancing accessibility to education. Oregon State University, for instance, has demonstrated substantial savings for students, with over $18 million saved in course material costs since 2019.
3. Virtual Reality Revolutionizing Hands-On Programs in Online Education
Certain classes and programs pose greater challenges when transitioning to an online format than others. For instance, fulfilling the requirements of an English course may be more straightforward online compared to a biology course, which typically involves laboratory work.
However, experts predict that virtual reality technology will overcome these obstacles, rendering hands-on courses more accessible in the online sphere. Additionally, interactive videos, online skill demonstrations, and similar practices are cited as other effective methods to enhance online learning experiences.
For instance, the construction management program at the University of North Carolina—Charlotte employs interactive walkthrough videos of building inspections, offering students a hands-on learning experience rather than merely reading about or discussing the topic over Zoom.
4. Online learning is increasingly driven by data analytics.
With the surge in popularity of online education, course providers now have access to abundant data, enabling them to measure and predict the performance of online students more effectively, according to experts. By monitoring student engagement with course materials, educators can identify the root causes of academic challenges and devise strategies to enhance learning outcomes.
The proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to facilitate more personalized learning experiences. For years, the primary objective of education has been to tailor prompts and assignments to each student’s unique needs and pace. With advancements in AI technology, this goal of individualized learning is becoming increasingly attainable.
AI is indeed well-suited to facilitate individualized learning experiences. However, to fully leverage its potential in education, there is a need for universally developed platforms and tools specifically designed for educational purposes. While existing tools can be utilized to some extent, further product development is necessary to create integrated platforms that enable faculty to customize courses for personalized learning experiences. This evolution in technology may require a few more years of refinement before reaching widespread adoption.
5. Blended Learning is a Fixture Now
Now more than ever, classes are adopting a blended learning approach, incorporating both in-person and online instruction. Experts predict that this hybrid model is poised to become increasingly prevalent. Residential students are leveraging this approach by concurrently enrolling in online and face-to-face courses, thereby optimizing their resources to expedite the completion of their academic programs.
6. Technological advancements are expected to narrow the digital divide.
The digital divide emerged as a prominent issue during the pandemic. Students lacking computers or access to high-speed internet found themselves at a disadvantage while attempting to participate in online courses. Although some colleges took steps to address this by deploying Wi-Fi hotspots and establishing broadband access in public areas on campus, not all students in need were able to benefit from such services. Consequently, some students resorted to accessing free internet in coffee shops and the parking lots of fast-food restaurants.
Experts recommend designing courses to be equally accessible across devices, whether it’s a laptop or a cellphone, to enhance the online learning experience. However, efforts to bridge the digital divide extend beyond colleges; states also have a crucial role to play in this endeavor.
California’s 2021-2022 budget allocated $6 billion to bolster broadband infrastructure, aiming to connect homes in remote areas to stronger internet service through nearby networks. An additional $550 million was earmarked for the project, and construction on the initial phase of the 10,000-mile broadband network commenced in October 2022.
7. Expansion of Virtual Programming and Student Spaces
While students attending classes on campus often interact with classmates in common areas like the library, student union, and dining hall, this experience hasn’t traditionally been replicated for online students. Nevertheless, even as an online learner, you should still feel a sense of belonging and social connectedness to the community you are part of.
Colleges are poised to introduce a broader array of experiential virtual programming, including virtual student unions and group activities, to enrich the online student experience. This initiative aims to create a non-academic component that fosters engagement and provides students with a holistic college experience.
8. Growth of Smaller Credentials
For years, universities and companies have provided alternative credentials like digital badges, graduate certificates, and nano degrees alongside traditional college degrees. These offerings typically target industry-specific skills and cater to adult learners seeking to acquire new competencies while transitioning between roles.
The trend of alternative credentials is expected to persist, complementing traditional degrees rather than replacing them. These credentials will serve as valuable supplements to degree programs, equipping individuals with essential skills, leadership tools, and continuous learning opportunities essential for navigating evolving career landscapes. Given the rapid pace of technological advancements impacting various professions, lifelong learning has become imperative for sustaining lifelong employability.
9. Increased Collaboration Between Higher Education and Corporations
Numerous corporate entities have traditionally provided tuition assistance programs, wherein employees are reimbursed upon the completion of a semester or course. However, an increasing number of corporations are now collaborating with higher education institutions to cover partial or full expenses for online degree programs or micro-credentials.
Collaboration is prevalent in this arena, and there’s a notable surge in what we term the “corporate student” segment – individuals pursuing credentials or degrees to enhance their skills, often with financial support from their employers. This trend is particularly exciting as it signifies both employer backing and the assistance of an educational institution. Additionally, in certain instances, employers may even contribute towards repaying a portion or all of an employee’s student loans.
10. Growing Number of Options Requires Due Diligence from Students
Quality varies among college degree programs, regardless of whether they are conducted online or in person. As the number of online options continues to grow, students must exercise caution and evaluate their choices diligently. Students need to recognize warning signs such as lack of program accreditation, degree paths that appear overly expedited, and a dearth of student support services.
We are currently experiencing an unprecedented level of flexibility and accessibility. It’s crucial to invest time in thoroughly exploring the plethora of available options. Meeting with counselors from colleges and universities can provide valuable insights. By conducting thorough exploration, individuals can move beyond surface-level marketing tactics and focus on identifying programs that truly align with their career goals and offer the best prospects for employment.
11. Online Learning as the Primary Choice for More Students
Online education is often viewed as liberating by many older students and graduate students. However, it’s not limited to them alone. Experts suggest that even students within the traditional college age range of 18 to 22 are increasingly opting for online programs.
Before the onset of COVID-19, online learning was often regarded as inferior. However, similar to the shift in perception towards remote work, which is now widely accepted and seen as highly productive, online learning is now being recognized as equivalent to traditional in-person classrooms.
