In order to meet increasing demands driven by the diverse needs of students, many academic institutions have implemented distance learning environments and improved existing distance learning infrastructures to offer broader access to higher education. As a result of these efforts, academic institutions have enhanced their ability to serve individuals who are unable to attend class in traditional brick and mortar classrooms. One of these impacted groups is women, who otherwise may be restricted from furthering their education for various socio-economic reasons. Research indicates that the economic and societal advantages realized by the support of continuing education of women are numerous. This includes promoting self-sufficiency, increasing earning potential, and adapting to an increasingly globally-competitive world. Moreover, the education of women and their subsequent increased self-sufficiency allows for strengthening of the family unit, increased economic contribution to sustain local communities, and reduced dependency on governmental resources (Hill & King, 1993).
The purpose of this interactive group presentation is to the share results of a mixed methods study that involves women from differing demographic and socio-economic backgrounds who chose online learning as a medium to gain a higher education. The study is guided by the following research question: What is the impact of online higher education on women with experience as online students? Research methods include a quantitative analysis of survey data, as well as a qualitative analysis of interviews. Video of recorded interviews may be shared with participants. Preliminary results indicate that the quality of life for women is improved by way of online education.
Attendees will benefit from current research as well as best practices used to implement effective distance learning programs that will attract and retain women of differing demographic backgrounds. The findings may be used to aid institutions of higher learning to develop suitable distance learning programs that support the learning goals of women, and assist in developing diversity and leadership initiatives to recruit an increased number of women to higher education. In doing so, institutions will be more prepared to reach their goals, bring about positive social change through the improvement of the socio-economic status of women, and support a sense of empowerment that students gain by way of higher learning.
