Distance education on-line courses in business schools

Distance education has increased exponentially in business schools over the past decade and will continue into the next millennium. Distance education is not a new concept, it has been utilized for 150 years from correspondence to radio to television and now via the computer. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using this new media, on-line distance education? Are students receiving a quality education, or are the schools using on-line distance education to be more cost effective? This study will investigate the reasons why business schools engage in on-line distance education. The challenge will remain that business schools need to prepare their graduates for a competitive global marketplace. The faculty need to be innovative and creative in their lesson plans to ensure a steady flow in the distance education courses. Administrators must understand that cost savings will come in the future as the technologies and the student enrollment increase. This challenge must be addressed and appropriate educational strategies must be implemented to ensure that students are properly prepared. The brave new world of online distance education is now a reality. Are we ready for the changes?