Where life and learning click
Edmonton – A record number of post-secondary students won’t be driving to school or catching the bus this fall. Their classroom will be their home as they log on in record numbers to online studies.
“This year there are more courses and more programs offered online in Alberta than ever before,” said Doug Horner, Minister of Advanced Education and Technology. “That’s due to the foresight of 15 publicly funded colleges and technical institutes who have banded together under the eCampusAlberta partnership.”
The eCampusAlberta partnership was established in 2002. Tricia Donovan, Executive Director of eCampus Alberta, said course registrations reached a record of nearly 5,200 in 2006/07 - up approximately 45 per cent from the previous year. The number of online courses has also increased by nearly 40 per cent over last year, to more than 400. As well, the number of credentials offered fully online continues to increase each year and now includes more than 30 certificates, diplomas and applied degrees.
“The future of online education in Alberta looks brighter than ever,” said Donovan. “Clearly, there is a demand for online courses and programs in this province.” She said online education empowers people to pursue their studies and career ambitions while enabling them to remain living in their own communities.
Increasing flexibility and access to post-secondary learning opportunities is one of the key actions under Premier Ed Stelmach’s plan to build a stronger Alberta. Other priorities for the government are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, improve Albertans’ quality of life and provide safe and secure communities.
To learn more about eCampusAlberta log on to www.ecampusalberta.ca
© 2012 eCampusAlberta