Cost Benefit Analysis of Distance Learning Alternatives for DOD uniformed Personnel and Civilian Employees

摘要

This thesis supports the evaluation of standard classroom course conversion to distance learning alternatives for disseminating advanced education at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS). Distance learning is widely used throughout business, military, and academic organizations. Distance learning is convenient and gaining significant interest and importance to military personnel in assignments which hinder standard classroom attendance. This study focused on developing methodologies that could properly support a cost comparison for conversion of standard classroom instruction to distance learning. This study involved personal interviews with both military and civilian professors and other academic experts in distance learning design and implementation as well as a review of the literature. This thesis recommends NPS conduct further research to design a data base to collect reliable and relevant cost data to support future cost studies. NPS should also compare equivalent existing distance learning courses for content currently offered at various institutions other than NPS for consideration as possible substitutes for NPS classroom instruction.