About the Episode
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About the Episode:
In this episode, we're diving into the radical transformation of online education from pandemic necessity to strategic imperative. Joining Ray is Taylor Swaak, Senior Reporter at The Chronicle of Higher Education, whose article out this week “The Online Overhaul” tracks this seismic shift in the higher education landscape. Taylor's recent analysis reveals how institutions nationwide are scrambling to adapt—some successfully, others not so much.
Key Takeaways
- Online education surged ahead by 5-7 years due to the pandemic, forcing institutions to rethink their long-term strategies.
- Successful colleges engage faculty early, invest in professional development, and provide robust student support services.
- Even on-campus students demand flexible, hybrid learning options, despite paying for traditional residential experiences.
- Community colleges are leading the charge, rapidly investing in online learning infrastructure to meet workforce needs.
- Institutions are gradually moving away from OPMs, bringing instructional design and market research in-house where possible.
- Market demand drives online program development, ensuring institutions invest in high-growth fields with strong job prospects.
- AI is beginning to shape online learning, with adaptive courseware and AI-driven student engagement tools becoming more common.
Which Colleges Are Best Positioned for Online Growth?
Not all colleges are adapting to online education at the same pace. Institutions with clear strategies for faculty engagement, professional development, and wraparound student services tend to be more successful. Schools that establish dedicated workgroups and secure faculty buy-in see smoother transitions, while those with decentralized structures often struggle with consistency and quality in their online offerings.
Why Are On-Campus Students Opting for Online Courses?
Despite paying thousands for room and board, many on-campus students prefer the flexibility of online classes. Swaak notes that today's students live hybrid lives—they expect seamless integration of digital and in-person experiences. Colleges must balance this demand with their financial realities, ensuring that hybrid learning options enhance rather than replace traditional campus experiences.
How Are Community Colleges Leading the Digital Learning Shift?
Community colleges have been quick to expand online learning, recognizing its importance for adult learners and workforce training. Data from The Chronicle of Higher Education shows a surge in online-related job postings at two-year institutions, highlighting a major shift in staffing priorities. However, balancing investment in digital infrastructure with the costs of maintaining physical campuses remains a challenge.
Are Colleges Moving Away from OPMs?
Some institutions are beginning to reduce their reliance on Online Program Management (OPM) companies, choosing instead to build internal capabilities. However, this transition requires significant investment in market research, instructional design, and IT support. For smaller colleges or those with limited budgets, OPMs remain a critical partner in launching and scaling online programs.
How Are Schools Evaluating Market Demand for Online Programs?
Rather than guessing, colleges use workforce data, employer partnerships, and student waitlists to determine which online programs to develop. Many institutions collaborate with external research firms to assess demand and ensure their programs align with industry needs. The goal is to avoid launching niche programs with little enrollment potential while still differentiating from competitors.
Is AI Changing the Online Education Landscape?
Artificial intelligence is beginning to shape online learning through adaptive courseware and AI-powered student engagement tools. While AI integration is still in its early stages, faculty are increasingly seeking guidance on how to use it effectively. Colleges are exploring ways to responsibly incorporate AI while maintaining academic integrity and student learning outcomes.
Connect With Our Host:
About The Enrollify Podcast Network: Mastering the Next is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network. If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!
Some of our favorites include The EduData Podcast and Generation AI.
Enrollify is produced by Element451 — the next-generation AI student engagement platform helping institutions create meaningful and personalized interactions with students. Learn more at element451.com.
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