Evolution of Online Learning
It wasn't that long ago that many educational institutions as well as employers were reluctant to recognize the quality of online degrees. In fact, many educational institutions were concerned that their "brand" would be watered down if they were to offer online degree programs in addition to their traditional campus-based programs. While serving as an online instructor for the past two years, it has been interesting to observe the significant increase in the number of colleges and universities that now offer online degree programs. In fact, practically every major university today now offers online degree programs.
How do employers now view online degree programs? Do they recognize earned online degrees as being equal with traditional degrees?
Christopher,
I would agree that the tools have definately improved and continue to improve. This new set of teaching "tools" now more than ever requires the instructor to critically analyze their courses and determine the most effective combination of tools to reach the most diverse audience possible.
Herbert Brown III
David because of technology I believe online education is becoming "mainstream". For example when I first started teaching online nearly 8 years ago the only tools we had were asynchronous tools such as email and discussion threads but not true CMS. Today, we have synchronous tools such as live video chat where we can conduct a virtual face-to-face classroom. This feature alone gives us the traditional face-to-face environment.
Christina
I've been teaching in the online environment since 2000 and would agree with your assessment, but think it will take more time for most to feel there is no difference between online and ground classes. Sadly the recent bad publicity for some for-profits hasn't helped.
Cheers, Dennis
Kathy,
It is getting better but I think this line of thinking will continue for a few more years. As more and more people with degrees earned online enter the work force and are successful there will be more acceptance of online learning.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have found that many people still doubt the legitimacy of online degrees and assume the degree was "bought" through a "diploma mill".
Heather,
I agree that online degrees are being recognized and respected at a much higher level today. This is a result of many factors one of which is the improvement of quality of content, experience faculty and graduates that are competent.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Dr. Anastasia,
Good point and one we need to remember each time we start a new student in one of our courses. Supports and delivery methods have gotten so much better in the last few years and as a result we can expect more engagement from our students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I believe that more and more employers are recognizing online degrees, because more and more people are now getting them. With people working trying to better themselves and being busy they are moving to online classrooms to do this
I have been teaching in the online environment since 2004. There has been a major change in the attitudes regarding online learning. When the government began to recognize online learning, the public slowly followed suit. However, it is my job as an instructor to make sure that the learning experience is excellent and the outcomes usable for real world environments.
Michelle,
This is true and as there is more refinement in the industry of online instruction the separation is going to become more observable.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think employers will still be individualizing the online degree to the person or position the are looking for. I feel certain educational institutions based on reputation and graduate product will have more recognition than others.
Sherry,
I am very glad to know this. Is there some research or article indicating something to this effect? It would be very helpful to have the reference. Thank you for your contribution.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I do believe that employers recognize online programs. They realize that it takes just as much hard work and dedication as a traditional degree.
When it comes to employers, I am not so sure that they are concerned about whether the student or applicant received their degree online, but whether or not the school is known for a particular body of knowledge. In other words if the school is known for successful grads in business and that is what the employer is looking for than I don't think that online studies are a deal breaker.
There appears to be a lot of colleges and universities emerging and I think that they may be the reason that some employers may questions online degrees. I think the stigma of online degrees may decrease once their are enough graduates from that university or college who prove themselves in the work place.
David,
The employer's question of online or traditional seems to be going away. I believe the focus (when sought) is whether the school is accredited or not. I have not seen any research on this to confirm.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
