Logistically online learning has its benefits. For instance in a course, such as the one we are going through, learners are automatically freed from having to attend class at a set time each week. This allows the learner to be self-directed in setting appointments with oneself for learning.
Calculate this in terms of cost to the learner. The flexibility of time that online learning gives the learner can be "saving" to both the learner's family and career. Online learning can also be viewed as "cost saving", you would not need to budget for printed material, catering or meeting room rentals.
In regard to Cafarella's seven factors for choosing delivery formats, the following are some brief questions and statements I would reflect on:
2. The availability and expertise of staff: For online learning could I find staff that were competent in the needed technical skills required to facilitate and develop online learning programs? Could staff create and facilitate the needed interactive websites and blogs?
3. Cost: Would a web developer need to be hired for developing an online learning program and would that cost outweigh developing the program in an alternate format? What would the ratio be for instructor to student? How many students could the instructor successfully manage (this may involve answering emails, phone queries, and providing feedback on assignments to the participants)? Would an online program increase the need for facilitators/instructors per student ratio, and thereby increase the cost?
4. Types of faculties and equipment: If there are challenges in finding adequate training rooms, online learning opens a viable alternate. Again, all participants would need to have access to computers and internet connection.
5. Program content: I assume that if the learning is hands on, for instance a workshop on welding metals, that online learning would not be the best route.
6. Program outcomes: Can the program and learning objectives be reached through online learning as a program format?
7. The context in which the learning is to take place: If the program is online the learner may not have to take time off work to attend "class", depending on the organizational context this may be the only way for the learner to participate, that is outside of his/her work schedule. Online learning is a option that would suite many adult learners, who each have unique scheduling barriers.
