In the past, what was once commonly referred to as “distance learning” consisted mainly of correspondence courses or independent study in which the student received a package of materials, studied and mailed back a test. This format was a favorite of geographically remote practitioners for many years. With the advent of technology this type of remote study (now called “e-learning” or “online learning”) continues to grow more widespread acceptance. It is estimated that Web-based CPE training will grow twice the rate of classroom based training over the next two years.

The most important factor in the growth of online learning has been, of course, the advancement of the technology itself. Well over half of the U.S. population has Internet access today. Higher bandwidth connections are now the norm. Online learning software also came a long way. Video feeds, PowerPoint slides, screen sharing, instant chat, polls, whiteboards, breakout sessions and many other features are now bundled together, offering a rich, interactive environment for learning.

Impact of the Younger Generation

Another contributing factor to the growth of online learning is our increasing comfort with technology. Simply put, people are plugged in. They can’t live without their cell phones, MP3 players, BlackBerrys and other mobile devices. This dependence on technology is especially important to today’s younger professional. Having grown up with the Internet, portable media devices and instant access to information, they will demand their education be just as engaging and accessible.
 
And there are a lot of these young techie learners coming! According to AICPA 2008 Trends report, accounting enrollments continue to grow. As these new learners populate the profession, the pressure will continue for continuing education to go high tech. This group uses the Internet not just for information gathering, but as a portal for social interaction and collaboration. The growth of Web sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook are a testament to the millennial’s passion for interacting with others in a
“virtual” setting.

In addition to the technology advances and the interests of the new learner, online learning seems assured a bright future when we look at the lifestyle of today’s busy professional. The overload that comes from the changes in the CPA profession, demands of overscheduled lives, long work hours and long commutes, all contribute to the struggle to fit everything in. Today’s busy practitioner doesn’t have time to get all of his or her training live. Add to this the frustration with airline travel, the cost of gas and today’s strong mandate to be “green,” and even today’s older practitioners are starting to be drawn to the convenience of online learning.

Of course, online learning is not new. Colleges and universities took the plunge years ago. Today more than two-thirds of all higher education institutions have some form of online offerings, with the majority of these providing programs that are entirely online. It is now time for the continuing education industry to take the leap. It is undeniable that the future is online learning. Getting in the game is critical to the success of today’s continuing education provider. According to CPE Link, a new CPE provider offering online CPE via live Webcasts and online courses, adding online learning to your curriculum can be a way to attract attendees from a broader geographic area, increase revenue and enhance your value in the eyes of your members and customers. The evolution of online learning is just beginning. Today’s Webcasts and podcasts will give way to tomorrow’s richer hybrid models encompassing blogs, learning communities and even virtual worlds like Second Life. Will you and your organization be ready when online goes mainstream?

Erhan Aksoy is the CEO for CPE Link — a new Web-based CPE provider focused on helping local, state and national accounting associations and firms offer online learning to their members and staff. www.cpelink.com