Distance Learning | News

U Arkansas Works To Expand Online Reach

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 04/15/14

Not even a month after Wichita State University said it was teaming up with Blackboard to create a new approach for delivering student services, the University of Arkansas announced that it would be working with the education technology company to analyze the marketability of its online degree programs.

The goal of the project will be to help the Fayetteville institution identify and promote key programs to address unmet demands for flexible degree options in Arkansas and neighboring states. Blackboard will conduct market research, create branding and communications materials and develop marketing plans to help the university attract new online students. The school already uses several of Blackboard's products, including learning management system Blackboard Learn.

Blackboard's proposal allows the university to maintain control over its online programs, selecting only the services it wants to purchase. This fee-for-service model lets the university determine what support it wants and in what areas.

"The benefits of robust online education reach beyond the online student," said Javier Reyes, U Arkansas' vice provost for distance education. "Online programs should be a seamless part of the university ecosystem and student experience. We are excited to partner with Blackboard, a trusted and experienced industry leader, to do just that. They have created innovative methodologies and can demonstrate proven success in helping students meet their educational goals."