HCM + CHEPP Release New Policy Paper on Delivering Robust and Relevant Academics in Online Higher Education

Today, the Center for Higher Education Policy and Practice (CHEPP) has released its latest policy paper,“Online by Design: Delivering Robust and Relevant Academics to Support Learner Success” which explores key elements of a robust and relevant academic experience, regardless of modality, based on a thorough literature review. Through case studies, the report demonstrates how these elements are delivered in scalable online programs. Ensuring learners have access to the suite of supports and academic resources online that they have in-person is critical to ensuring the online academic experience is intentional and can help give learners the best chance to succeed in higher education.

About the Paper

This policy paper examines the growing number of online and hybrid learners in higher education – many of them driven by the need for flexibility as they juggle work, school, caregiving, and much more. To meet this moment, institutions of higher education must offer the necessary resources and supports to help learners succeed online and in-person. The report explores the element of a robust and relevant online academic experience in depth and highlights case studies from Ivy Tech Community College, University of Maryland Global Campus and Southern New Hampshire University – institutions that have intentionally scaled online offerings and designed online programs to deliver the key elements identified above.

This is the third policy paper in the ongoing partnership between HCM and CHEPP. We are proud to support this important work, contributing to the consideration and development of recommendations that make education more accessible and valuable to all learners.