As 2024 comes to an end, it’s time to reflect on the past year’s achievements in online education and consider the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. While 2025 will certainly present some uncertainties and significant shifts in the U.S. education system, we may also see renewed focus on some very low-tech but crucial career skills. 

2024 Achievements In Online Education 

Here are some of the year’s achievements impacting online learning in higher education. 

Student Engagement and Performance Soar 

Perhaps the most significant achievement in online education this year has been the broader implementation of personalized learning platforms. These tools empower educators to tailor learning experiences to students’ individual needs and preferences.  

Driven by artificial intelligence (AI), adaptive learning systems evaluate student data, provide instant feedback, and automatically adjust lesson content. Generative AI tools are becoming standard practice in online and campus-based classrooms, and educators are seeing encouraging results. In 2024, personalized and adaptive learning in higher education was associated with: 

  • Increased student engagement in 36% of studies 
  • Increased academic performance in 59% of studies 

Online Learning Gains Global Momentum 

63% of U.S. students participate in some form of online education every day. Internationally, nearly half of all students have engaged in online learning. Trends suggest students choosing online education worldwide will soon be in the majority.  

Microcredentials Reach a Milestone  

Attention spans are measurably shrinking, and while advertisers and social media influencers have been the primary beneficiaries of short-form content, online education is hopping on board. Shorter, skills-focused programs and condensed learning modules within traditional multiyear degree programs have gained significant traction.  

According to a survey of more than 850 institutions worldwide, 51% of higher education institutions offered microcredentials in 2024, and most of these programs were available online. Lengthy video lectures are also giving way to brief informational clips—microlearning—focused on key points. 

Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges 

The news is mixed on what’s to come in education. While there are many reasons to be hopeful, it’s also important that institutions keep a close eye on some potentially challenging developments. 

Renewed Focus on Uniquely Human Intelligence  

The widespread adoption of AI is beginning to leave an indelible mark on education. Yet institutions are also beginning to listen to employers who for years have been saying that many job candidates are lacking a key asset: soft skills. Also known as “people skills,” these versatile professional abilities can benefit students in any future profession. 

Some argue that an increased emphasis on STEM in recent years has been at the expense of soft skills. Sciences, technology, engineering, and mathematics will certainly remain a core part of education. But in 2025, expected to see a renewed emphasis on helping students develop skills like:  

  • Critical thinking 
  • Strategic thinking 
  • Verbal and written communication 
  • Adaptability 
  • Leadership 
  • Problem-solving 
  • Presentation 
  • Collaboration/teamwork  
  • Emotional intelligence 
  • Time management 

In addition to subjects traditionally associated with these skills—English, humanities, history, psychology—expect to see soft skill development integrated across a broader range of subjects. 

Unprecedented Uncertainty to Hit the U.S. Education System 

The incoming presidential administration has expressed its intention to eliminate the Department of Education during the coming term. The implications for online and campus-based higher education are broad, impacting Title I, Title IX, IDEA, and the federal loans so many students depend upon for their college degrees. 

While the specific changes remain to be seen, institutions must take the possibility seriously and be prepared.  

A Partner to Prepare You for the Future of Online Education 

As the online learning space becomes increasingly competitive, institutions that want to compete need to keep pace—or even set the pace. Apollidon Learning can help. 

We’re a comprehensive online program management and marketing firm dedicated to supporting your online programs, whether you need a complete marketing solution or specific services to achieve your enrollment targets. Look to Apollidon for: 

  • Content creation and targeted outreach 
  • Custom branding and web development 
  • Data analytics 
  • Competitive analysis 
  • Student outreach and engagement services 
  • SRM infrastructure tailored for online higher education 

With extensive experience in launching degree and certificate programs online, our team provides robust support through proven methods and innovative marketing strategies. We stay ahead of emerging trends to ensure your programs stand out.  

As a committed partner in your educational mission, we focus on leveraging the latest tools and tactics to drive success and enhance your institution’s impact. We’re prepared to help you navigate a dynamic education environment, whatever changes may come. 

Reach out to us today for more information. We look forward to assisting you.