A decade ago, an analyst at an investment firm recommended that Kevin Kinser, a Penn State University education professor, explore the world of online program managers (OPMs) and their partnerships with colleges to establish online degree programs. These companies provided recruiting, marketing, and back-end support to prestigious universities as they launched online graduate degrees in various fields such as social work, nursing, and international relations.
Back then, the typical model for OPMs was to provide support to name-brand universities in launching online programs in specific fields. However, this recommendation led Kevin Kinser to conduct further research into these companies and their partnerships with educational institutions. His investigations revealed that while these collaborations had enabled universities to expand their online programs quickly, they had also raised concerns about the influence of profit-driven motives on educational programs.
Kevin Kinser’s work has shed light on the complex and evolving relationships between educational institutions and OPMs in the digital age. His research has also challenged traditional models of online education by prompting a reassessment of the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in higher education.
As a result of his findings, Kevin Kinser’s work has prompted a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding online education partnerships between educational institutions and OPMs. This has led to a more informed approach towards developing effective strategies for expanding online education programs while ensuring that they align with educational goals rather than profit motives.
In conclusion, Kevin Kinser’s work has brought attention to the need for greater transparency and accountability in online education partnerships between educational institutions and OPMs. By challenging traditional models of online education, he has paved the way for more effective strategies for expanding access to higher education while maintaining high standards of quality.