Online MBA Programs: Delivery Methods

Nicole Willson looks at some of the different delivery methods of online MBA programs.

While all of the online MBA programs in the 2012 QS Distance Online Ranking are Internet-based, there are significant differences in the way programs are delivered. 

The nature of online learning means that a number of different delivery methods are available. Text, video, audio, animation, and virtual environments are just some of the methods used by online MBA providers.

This range of options is, of course, used in different ways by different schools, creating a significant variety in the programs on offer. The amount of a course that is delivered online also varies. Programs can be classified according to this:

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 (or 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 (as compared to on-campus courses) 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 course content is delivered online.
Most of the programs in the 2012 QS Distance Online Ranking are online programs. However, others, such as Thunderbird’s program (in which 25% of the content is delivered face-to-face), utilize hybrid methods.

Online classes can be 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.

Many online MBA programs include online support – a version of knowledge databases allowing a greater deal of interactivity. 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 specific questions.

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