Distance Education Survey, 2007. A Report on Course Structure and Educational Services in Distance Education and Training Council Member Institutions

Overview & Synopsis

In April 2007 the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC) surveyed 67 of its accredited institutions to determine current aspects of the distance study educational practice. (Military and international institutions were omitted.) This report is a collection and summary of the data received. This survey contained questions in the following areas: (1) General; (2) Course Development; (3) Educational Services; and (4) Conclusion (Future Outlook). It is hoped that these surveys will make it easier for distance study educators to make accurate benchmark comparisons and provide practical information for institutional planning. Three categories of DETC membership are included: (1) High School; (2) Postsecondary; and (3) Degree Granting. A summary of comments indicate that the following are widely-held beliefs within the DETC membership: (1) Outlook for the distance education market is strong and will continue to grow for many years; (2) Higher education, including traditional on-site schools, will be turning to distance education as a mainstream delivery medium; (3) Public acceptance of distance education is growing; (4) Competition in distance education at all levels is increasing; (5) New technology will play a great role in distance education; (6) Internet and online learning will continue to be heavily utilized; (7) Excellence in product and service are vital; (8) Distance educators are reaching out to more and various markets, including international students; (9) Regulatory interest in distance education has increased, and will continue to do so as new providers create more activity and potential problems for quality oversight officials; and (10) DETC institutions are optimistic about market forces broadening school transfer credit policies. A copy of the survey is included. [For the 2004 report, see ED483321.]