Online Learning: The Positive Influence Of Online Education

Throughout the past 50 years, online learning has evolved to offer a majority of undergraduate degree programs and advanced degree programs. In 1976, the University of Phoenix was founded to give working adults flexible higher education options. In 1994, the first completely on-line curriculum was introduced by CalCampus, by 2014, 98% of colleges and universities offered online programs (Dumbauld). With these continuing advances in education, more people are able to pursue a college degree. On-line education is geared towards working adults with full time jobs, families and busy lifestyles. By fulfilling the needs of our society and offering classes on-line, colleges now allow for barriers to be crossed economically, socially, geographically and professionally. Today, we are facing more expensive education options along with a higher cost of living. The dream of attending a 4 year university may be unattainable for many Americans. The effects of on-line learning have both direct and indirect influences on our economy. The ability to directly offer jobs and careers within the field of online learning and make jobs open to thousands will have a positive impact on our economy. Indirectly, having a more educated workforce will help our societies, communities and country as a whole excel. On-line …show more content…
Whenever there is a need for a service, society comes up with a solution. While on-line learning has been in existence for years, the demands on our time and the need to be able to compete in a changing world make on-line study a necessity. Prospective students can review degrees offered from universities across the country, compare costs and accreditations, and attend a college hundreds of miles away while never leaving their living room. On-line education filled a need and has become a necessity in higher