Online college education for computer-savvy students: a study of perceptions and needs

With new technologies and cyberspace-literate students, distance education has been in high demand and more schools are getting into online education. As such, understanding the needs of current and prospective learners has become especially important for success in the new millennium. Based on the learners’ needs and current technology status, this study provides a review on the feasibility of online education for modern students in a developed nation. Based on the survey of 203 undergraduate students, this research provides an assessment of their views, needs, and wants for the feasibility of offering online courses and programs. Such demographic variables as gender, ethnicity and education demonstrated statistically significant results. Recommendations are provided for administrators to enhance their online offerings as a result of the feedback from students. The document further explores online education, online operation, and other such variables that impact the success of students in higher education.

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