Lessons learned: A year of online learning

A year of online learning has opened doors for many and exacerbated issues of inequity in higher education for others. But what have we learned about how students learn online and how institutions can adapt? How can we address the needs of student populations that have been underserved during this transition? Can quality education be equitably provided to all students virtually—and how, if at all, should tuition costs adjust?

To dig into these questions and more, Third Way’s Michelle Dimino was joined by Taela Dudley, Senior Policy Associate at The Century Foundation; Jillian Klein, Senior Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Strategic Education; Dr. Justin Ortagus, Assistant Professor of Higher Education Administration and Policy at the University of Florida; and Dr. Shanna Smith Jaggars, Assistant Vice Provost of Research and Program Assessment in the Office of Student Academic Success at The Ohio State University.

Michelle kicked off the event in conversation with Dr. Shanna Smith Jaggars and Jillian Klein about how the online learning environment has changed post-pandemic. The trio talked about the pivot to online learning and some of the challenges that have developed, like issues accessing broadband for students, equipping faculty with resources and support necessary to teach online, and ensuring high quality learning and student success.

During the event, we also debuted Third Way Edu’s latest video explainer: The 101 on OPMs, which provides an overview of online program managers and the role they play in distance education. Michelle then turned to Taela Dudley and Dr. Justin Ortagus to discuss what the past year of online learning has taught us about the future of higher education. Both touched on the importance of transparency in online programs and concerns they have as the online learning landscape changes and expands in a post-COVID world.

To get a full recap of the event, check out the recording above, and be on the lookout for Third Way Edu’s next digital briefing.