Heads up, independent software developers / ISVs who write for Ink. You may find it useful to review the rapid growth of online learning. The North American Council for Online Learning (NACOL) offers several research reports about the status and growth of online learning you may use when preparing case statements for financial angels.

• K-12 online learning (consists) of an estimated $50 million market, which is growing at an estimated annual pace of 25% annually.

• 38 states have established e-learning initiatives (including virtual schools, cyber charter schools, online testing and internet-based professional development).

• There are 25 state-wide or state-led virtual schools in the United States.

• There are 147 virtual charter schools with 65,354 students in 18 states.

• Michigan became the first state in April 2005 to require online learning as a high school graduation requirement by law.

• 80% of K-12 school districts cited “the course was otherwise unavailable” as the number one reason for offering courses at a distance. (sources of data available on NACOL site; bolds added to quotes)

Online learning and mobile PCs seem a natural union and an emerging market ripe for the creative genius of ISVs.

NACOL was founded in 2003. It is a non-profit organization with 1,300 members. It represent the interests of K12 administrators, practitioners, businesses and students involved in online learning in the United States, Canada and Mexico.


Tablet PC Education Blog