1. Future Vision for Post University Online Education Institute Veronica Vazquez Post University

2. Overview As the demands for digitally mediated learning environments continues to be on the rise, many education institutions have been faced with the need to change and adapt their teaching methods. Post University has undergone a significant transformation since it was founded in 1890 due to technology changes. In 1996 Post University introduced its students to the first accelerated degree program available completely on the Internet, marking the beginnings of its virtual teaching and learning revolution.

3. Overview The success of the first online program offered by Post University was impressive, and soon Post University found itself launching new online academic programs in various disciplines. Post University currently enrolls about 16,000 online students located all over the world. Post University continues to innovate the way education is delivered to its student. In the latest news, Post announced to its students the introduction of a new Electronic Course Materials (ECMs) program which will offer them a more interactive and engaging learning experience as well as a more cost-effective alternative to traditional textbooks.

4. Overview Education and Technology Trends Curriculum innovation Traditional classroom environment does not provide students with enough interaction to keep them engaged (Flynn & Vredevoogd, 2010). Therefore, in order for educators to effectively deliver their teachings, integration of technology in the classroom is vital (Wei-Ying, 2011). Preparing students for the real world Colleges and Universities must prepare students for success after graduation (Flynn & Vredevoogd, 2010). Incorporating Web 2.0 tools such as Virtual World can help students build the skill-set necessary to be competent in a work environment (Erenli & Ortner, 2011).

5. Overview Economic and Public Policy Trends Affordable education To counteract the incline of tuition cost within higher education there has been an expansion in the amount awarded for federal financial aid (Sawhill & Goldrick, 2014). Competition for funding programs Funding policies based on performance has increased the competition among colleges and universities, where now more focus is placed on student outcome (Conner & Rabovsky, 2011). Resulting in colleges and universities competing to attract students with the potential achieve academic excellence, enhancing their brand and standing out from the crowd (Flynn & Vredevoogd, 2010).

6. Overview Futuring Methodologies: Scenarios One of the most common techniques used in future studies (Mietzner & Reger, 2005). Allows the exploration of various alternate futures in efforts to make better decisions in the present (Mietzner & Reger, 2005). Futuring Methodologies: Scanning The collection and analysis of data to be later utilized in strategic planning (Babatunde & Adebisi, 2012). Helps stay well-informed of the changes occurring in a particular area of interest (Babatunde & Adebisi, 2012).

7. Overview Futuring Methodologies BenefitsLimitations Scanning Recognize market behaviors Identify key factors Identify driving forces Pertinent data may go unnoticed due to lack of strong indicators Scenarios Generate fresh ideas Merge complicated factors into a comprehensive vision Set forth a discussion of cause and effect analysis Influence contrasting perspectives Formulate a plan of action to prepare for such events Can be a lengthy activity Difficulties in data collection and analysis Difficulties in focusing on non ideal scenarios Difficulties in recruiting adequate experts in the subject

8. Vision of Post University 2019 Post University will be serving a student body encompassed of a considerable higher percentage of non-traditional students as a result of the demographic shift presented by Cruce and Hillman (2012). Online classes offered at Post University incorporating an array of web 2.0 technologies propelled by the demand of new generation of college students who are seeking a learning environment that is more interactive and engaging In accordance to Post University’s mission to prepare students for success in the real world, the skills students develop and they knowledge they acquire throughout Post University’s innovative learning environment produces college graduates who have the technological skillset that employers are needing. Post University’s commitment to invest in technology integration within the learning environment has made it a leader in the education field, and a brand synonymous to quality education and positive student outcome. This in turns attracts more students who persist in their program from enrollment through graduation. This enables Post University to continue to offer financial aid to eligible students (Sawhill & Goldrick-Rab, 2014).

9. Preparing for Change There are a few ways that Post University can prepare to effectively execute this Future Vision of Education. Post University must hire a consulting group or firm with vast experience in educational technology implementation practices. Establish a small control group to evaluate the effectiveness of the new curriculum. Engage students in various feedback activities including polls, surveys and chat rooms to find out their perspective in relation to the changes being made as student satisfaction is key to the success of any educational institution. Create a Post University task force team of subject matter experts in web 2.0 technologies to manage these changes internally. Supply webinars and other training platforms to the faculty in efforts to get them involved and engaged in the learning environment transformation.

10. Call to Action As the demands for digitally mediated learning environments continues to be on the rise, many education institutions have been faced with the need to change and adapt their teaching methods in order to remain a competitive force in the education industry (Callaway, 2012). The first step that Post University must take if it wants to remain relevant in the education field is to create a committee comprised of individuals from diverse backgrounds dedicated to research and test the new digital technologies, as well as creating a strategic plan for implementation.

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