People change careers and relocate several times throughout their lives. Learning methods need to become more portable and flexible. Learning is a life-long process. Learners are consumers. Distance learning provides more freedom for learners and creates more choices than ever before.
Technology makes it possible to deliver educational experiences to the home and workplace.
Universities are in competition for learners with the private sector, non-profit organizations, and other universities. These trends identify the need to focus on the learner when developing distance learning material. The roles of educator and educational institution are changing. As educators, and as an institution dedicated to education, we must grow and change along with our learners. We must critically evaluate learning activities and ensure those we use meet the needs of today's learners.