4 Key Questions about Online Learning

(from Inside Higher Ed) Enrollment struggles and competitive pressures compel more independent schools, along with small colleges, to consider online learning as a key differentiator. Small, specialized online programs may become economically viable at around 50 students. Four questions to ask in 2018:

1. How might online education change our admissions funnel? Online courses may supplant traditional marketing methods as means of engaging new potential students.
2. Can online education enhance opportunities for our existing students, either during the regular school year or during break periods?
3. Are there opportunities to build small, specialied online programs around our key strengths? Key areas of institutional strength, including especially strong faculty members, may be able to attract new students from anywhere. 
4. Could we use online education to serve our alumni and other lifelong learners? Continuous education has become the new normal. Quality online courses could help to keep graduates close to their alma maters.