Online Learning Programs Expected in Over Half of U.S. Public Schools by 2012

[Tami]

Online Learning Programs Expected in Over Half of U.S. Public Schools by 2012, Simba Information Study Finds

STAMFORD, CT--(Marketwire - March 30, 2010) - Interest is growing in online learning courses in the kindergarten through grade 12 school segment, and more than half of the nation's public elementary and secondary schools could be offering students online learning programs within the next two years, media industry forecast and analysis firm Simba Information projects in its most recent research report, Moving Online: K-12 Distance Learning Market Forecast 2010.

According to a survey conducted by Simba Information and Market Data Retrieval in February 2010, about one-third of schools have some kind of online program in 2009-2010, and another 20% expect a program will be started by 2011-2012.

"The anticipated expansion of the implementation of online learning is spurred not only by the economy and education budget constraints but by the increasing recognition of the need to engage students as individuals and the rapid proliferation of computer technologies," said Kathy Mickey, senior analyst/managing editor of Simba's Education Group.

The jointly conducted Simba Information/Market Data Retrieval survey of district- and school-level administrators featured in the new report provides greater understanding of who offers online courses and what purposes the courses serve.

Another key feature of the report is the detailed examination of current and developing programs through six case studies at the district, state and consortium levels.

Publishers, marketing, sales and business development professionals, as well as industry analysts and consultants, will gain insights into:

* The most widely deployed uses of online courses;
* Market segments with the most penetration and most anticipated growth;
* Types of instructional materials most in demand in online courses;
* How components of online courses are being integrated into mainstream classes.

Additional information can be found at www.simbainformation.com.