We helped transform their business model.
When our founder began working with Strayer University Online in 2002, they offered only live online courses. Students were required to participate in courses at set times, just like going to a scheduled class on campus. Stephanie helped them envision a new model to offer courses asynchronously, broadening their appeal and availability for working professionals, students in the military, and international students.
Challenge
Can we maintain the strength of the learning experience without real-time instruction?
Can we meet established learning objectives and outcomes as effectively in a self-directed, asynchronous format?
Solution
In 2003, Stephanie worked with the Dean to develop a pilot. She adapted existing content and learning objectives into learning experiences that students could absorb independently. She ensured students' retention of material by incorporating additional assessment methods, creating assignments that required application of learning along the way, and building instructor contact into each course using interactive chat sessions, instant messaging, and robust feedback.
The pilot was a success and became the model for new online learning practices at the University. Asynchronous courses soon became the main revenue stream for Strayer University Online.