Online learning takes off in US

The Huffington Post reports.

Enrolment in online classes doubled between 2007 and 2011, driven largely by a stagnant economy and competitive job market, but also by robust online offerings from established public and private institutions, according to the report. At more than 2 500 colleges and universities surveyed, 65% of administrators say online learning is a vital piece of their institution's long-term strategy.

Recognising the growing importance of online education in the college experience, and the unique formula necessary to make online degree programmes successful, US Newsis releasing its first Top Online Education Programmes rankings.

There are three separate numerical indicator rankings for online bachelor's degree programmes: a faculty credentials and training ranking; a student engagement and assessment ranking; and a student services and technology ranking, US News says. To make US News' honour roll of top online bachelor's degree programs, a school needed to place in the top third of ranked schools (rounded) in all three of these modules.

Data collection commenced on 14 July 2011, using a password-protected online system. Drawing from its Best Colleges universe of regionally accredited bachelor's granting institutions, US News & World Report e-mailed surveys to the 1 765 regionally accredited institutions it determined had offered bachelor's degree programmes in 2010.