A study to determine the need for delivering the Master of Science in Training and Development Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stout online

Abstract

In today’s rapidly evolving society, the Internet is changing the way in which we send and receive information. Universities across the globe are beginning to offer complete degree programs online in an effort to offer their programs to anyone who has access to the Internet. These online degree programs are allowing students to receive a quality education regardless of location. The purpose of this study is to determine the need, as expressed by select members of the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD), for delivering the Master of Science in Training and Development program online. The American Society of Training and Development is an organization comprised of students and professionals interested in the field of training and development. The purpose of researching this particular population is due to their interest and knowledge in the field of training and development. The intent of this study is to determine the participants’ willingness to pursue a Master of Science degree in Training and Development using the Internet as a medium. Past experiences related to online learning as well as their personal level of self-motivation and anticipated success in an online program will also be examined by this study. More specifically this study will determine if they feel they would succeed in the completion of an online advanced degree. Quantitative research, more specifically a survey, will be used to obtain quality and factual data. The researcher will utilize likert scale, multiple choice, and dichotomous questions. According to Pena (2001), “online learning is a convenient way to update your skills and become more competitive in the job market.” Online learning allows students more choices, and therefore more possibility to find a program that meets their needs. An estimated 180 accredited graduate schools now support distance-learning degree programs, and an increasing number of the programs are Web-based (Phillips, 1998). Allowing learners to complete assignments and review lectures on their own time is another benefit of online learning. According to Reid (2002), “web-based degree programs allow students to study and submit assignments virtually around the clock.” The flexibility of online learning allows for a diversity of students’ physical locations. According to Bennett (2001), “students can collaborate on work from different geographical locations at their own pace.” Other potential advantages of online courses include quick (sometimes immediate) feedback between instructors and students, promotion of critical thinking, instant or prompt e-mail messaging or responding, and less expensive modes of communication between students and instructor (Bennett, 2001).