What is online learning?

While all of the online MBA programs in the 2012 QS Distance Online Ranking are Internet-based, there are some differences in the ways the programs are delivered. This article will discuss the different types of online learning to help you better understand the online MBA programs in the ranking .

Online learning, aka e-learning, allows you to learn from anywhere as long as you have a computer. Online course content is delivered in a variety of ways including: text, video, audio, animation, and virtual environments.

Online learning classes are classified according to the percentage of content delivered online:

• Online classes are made up of content that is delivered mostly, if not completely, over the Internet. At least 80% of the course content is delivered online.

• Hybrid classes (aka blended courses) combine online and face-to-face delivery. 30-79% of hybrid course content is delivered online. These courses typically include online discussions as well as a reduced number of face-to-face meetings.

• Web Facilitated classes use a webpage or a Content Management System (CMS) to help deliver the content of a face-to-face course. 1-29% of Web Facilitated course content is delivered online.

Most of the programs in the 2012 QS Distance Online Ranking are online programs. Thunderbird’s program, where 25% of the content is delivered in a face-to-face setting, is one of the hybrid programs in the ranking.

Online classes are usually classified as either synchronous or asynchronous:

• Synchronous classes are real-time classes that are delivered by a facilitator. Students log in at the same time in order to interact with the instructor as well as their fellow classmates. Just like face-to-face classes, synchronous classes meet over a set amount of time ranging from one session to an entire semester. Synchronous classes are usually delivered through websites, audio or video conferencing, or Internet phone services (such as Skype).

• Asynchronous classes are Internet-based classes that you complete at your own pace. Interaction with your instructors and fellow students usually takes place through bulletin boards, discussion groups or email.

Most of the MBA programs included in the 2012 QS Distance Online Ranking are made up of asynchronous classes, so you aren’t required to log in at a certain time.

Many online MBA programs include online support, a more interactive version of knowledge databases. Online support can come in the form of forums, chat rooms, bulletin boards, email, or live instant-messaging support. Online support allows you to get immediate answers to more specific questions.

All of the programs listed in the ranking provide some form of online support.

Download the QS Distance Online MBA Rankings ›