GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Online Learning Industry Statistics

The online learning industry is expected to reach a market size of $370 billion by 2026, driven by increasing demand for continuous learning and upskilling opportunities.

Highlights: Online Learning Industry Statistics

  • By 2025, the online learning market in the U.S. is anticipated to reach approximately USD 30.7 billion.
  • As of 2021, there are over 6,900 recognized Higher Education institutions in the US offering online courses.
  • In 2017, 33 percent of college students reported taking at least one course online.
  • COVID-19 has led to a surge of 900% in the demand for online learning platforms worldwide.
  • In 2019, the digital learning market was estimated to be worth USD 101 billion globally.
  • Approximately, 60% of college students in the US say that online learning is as good as or better than on-campus learning.
  • Mobile e-learning is expected to reach $78.5 billion by 2025.
  • The usage of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) increased by nearly 40% in 2020.
  • Approximately 77% of companies in the US use online learning in some way.
  • Over 50% of distance students globally are female.
  • Over 1 billion people across the world have taken online learning or MOOC courses till date.
  • By 2026, it is expected that Asia-Pacific will acquire the largest share of the online learning market.
  • By 2025, the global online education market is projected to reach $319.167 billion.
  • On average, students retain 25-60% more material when learning online compared to only 8-10% in a classroom.
  • Around 46% of recent college graduates have taken at least one online course.
  • It is estimated that by 2025, 58% of students worldwide will be enrolled in some kind of online education.
  • Around 70% of students globally report that they learn best at their own pace, which online learning allows.
  • The percentage of companies offering training on smartphones rose from 35% in 2010 to 59% in 2017.
  • By 2022, the number of mobile learning users is expected to reach 2.7 billion.

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The Latest Online Learning Industry Statistics Explained

By 2025, the online learning market in the U.S. is anticipated to reach approximately USD 30.7 billion.

This statistic indicates the projected value of the online learning market in the United States by the year 2025, estimated to be around USD 30.7 billion. This forecast suggests substantial growth in the online learning industry within the next few years, reflecting increasing demand for digital educational platforms and services. Factors contributing to this growth may include the rising adoption of technology in education, the flexibility and accessibility of online learning options, and the impact of global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic driving the shift towards remote and virtual learning environments. The anticipated size of the market highlights the significant economic potential and market opportunities within the online education sector in the U.S. by 2025.

As of 2021, there are over 6,900 recognized Higher Education institutions in the US offering online courses.

The statistic that as of 2021, there are over 6,900 recognized Higher Education institutions in the US offering online courses reflects the widespread adoption and expansion of online education within the higher education sector. This figure signifies a significant shift towards more flexible and accessible learning opportunities for students, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The increasing number of institutions offering online courses also indicates a growing acceptance and recognition of online education as a legitimate and effective mode of learning. This statistic highlights the evolving landscape of higher education in the US, showcasing the importance of adapting to changing educational trends and meeting the diverse needs of students in the digital age.

In 2017, 33 percent of college students reported taking at least one course online.

In 2017, approximately 33 percent of college students reported taking at least one course online. This statistic indicates a substantial proportion of college students had engaged in distance learning through online courses during that year. The increase in the availability and popularity of online education suggests a growing trend towards more flexible and convenient learning options among the student population. Factors such as technological advancements, changing educational preferences, and the need for remote learning opportunities may have contributed to the uptake of online courses among college students. This statistic highlights the shifting landscape of higher education and the importance of incorporating digital learning modalities into traditional academic settings.

COVID-19 has led to a surge of 900% in the demand for online learning platforms worldwide.

The statistic that COVID-19 has resulted in a 900% surge in the demand for online learning platforms worldwide indicates a significant and rapid increase in the adoption and utilization of online educational resources in response to the pandemic. This surge reflects the widespread shift towards remote learning as traditional in-person educational settings were disrupted due to lockdowns and social distancing measures implemented to combat the spread of the virus. The 900% increase highlights the scale of the shift towards online platforms as individuals, educational institutions, and organizations sought alternative methods to continue learning and training during these challenging times. This surge underscores the importance of technology and online resources in ensuring continuity of education despite the unprecedented challenges posed by the global health crisis.

In 2019, the digital learning market was estimated to be worth USD 101 billion globally.

The statistic represents the estimated value of the digital learning market worldwide in 2019, reaching USD 101 billion. This figure reflects the significant growth and adoption of digital learning technologies and platforms across various sectors such as education, corporate training, and personal development. The value indicates the vast market potential for online learning solutions, including e-learning courses, virtual classrooms, learning management systems, and educational apps. The increasing demand for digital learning tools is driven by factors such as access to flexible and convenient learning options, advancements in technology, and the increasing emphasis on lifelong learning and upskilling in today’s knowledge-based economy. This statistic underscores the importance and relevance of digital learning in transforming traditional education and training approaches to meet the evolving needs of learners and organizations in the digital age.

Approximately, 60% of college students in the US say that online learning is as good as or better than on-campus learning.

The statistic indicates that a significant proportion of college students in the US view online learning favorably when compared to traditional on-campus learning. More specifically, 60% of students believe that online learning is either equally as effective as on-campus learning or even superior. This finding suggests a growing acceptance and preference for remote or virtual learning methods among college students, reflecting evolving attitudes towards educational delivery models. The statistic highlights the importance of adapting to changing student preferences and the need for educational institutions to continue developing and improving online learning platforms to meet the evolving needs of students.

Mobile e-learning is expected to reach $78.5 billion by 2025.

The statistic denotes the projected market value of mobile e-learning, estimated to grow to $78.5 billion by the year 2025. This figure reflects a significant increase in the adoption and usage of mobile devices for educational purposes, such as online courses, tutorials, and interactive learning apps. The rising demand for flexible and accessible learning solutions, coupled with advancements in technology, is driving the expansion of the mobile e-learning sector. The forecasted growth indicates a shifting educational landscape towards digital platforms, highlighting the importance of mobile technology in revolutionizing the way individuals acquire knowledge and skills.

The usage of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) increased by nearly 40% in 2020.

The statistic indicates that there was a significant increase in the utilization of MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) in the year 2020, with a growth rate of almost 40% compared to the previous period. This suggests a higher adoption rate of online learning platforms such as MOOCs, possibly driven by the global shift towards remote work and education due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The surge in MOOC usage could also be attributed to the increased availability of online learning resources, the flexibility and convenience of accessing courses from anywhere, and the growing recognition of the value of continuous learning and upskilling in a rapidly evolving job market. Overall, the statistic reflects a notable trend towards digital education and highlights the importance of online platforms in meeting the educational needs of individuals in the current landscape.

Approximately 77% of companies in the US use online learning in some way.

The statistic stating that approximately 77% of companies in the US use online learning in some way indicates a high prevalence of online learning adoption within organizational settings. This suggests that a significant majority of businesses in the US have incorporated online learning tools, platforms, or resources as part of their training and development strategies. The widespread utilization of online learning signifies a shift towards more flexible, accessible, and cost-effective training methods, which can offer employees opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement. This statistic highlights the increasing recognition and importance of digital learning technologies in supporting professional development and organizational growth among US companies.

Over 50% of distance students globally are female.

The statistic ‘Over 50% of distance students globally are female’ indicates that more than half of the students participating in distance education programs worldwide are female. This suggests a significant gender imbalance in favor of female students in the realm of distance learning. The higher representation of females in distance education could be attributed to various factors such as flexibility in scheduling, ability to balance family and work responsibilities, and access to education in regions where traditional education may be limited. This statistic highlights the importance of understanding gender dynamics in the field of education and advocating for equal opportunities for both men and women in accessing educational resources and opportunities.

Over 1 billion people across the world have taken online learning or MOOC courses till date.

The statistic that over 1 billion people worldwide have taken online learning or Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) to date indicates the widespread popularity and accessibility of digital education platforms. Online learning has gained significant traction in recent years due to advancements in technology, ease of access, and flexibility for learners to enhance their knowledge and skills remotely. This statistic showcases the global reach and impact of online education on individuals seeking educational opportunities outside of traditional classrooms, highlighting the evolution of learning paradigms in the digital age.

By 2026, it is expected that Asia-Pacific will acquire the largest share of the online learning market.

The statistic suggests that by the year 2026, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to surpass other regions as the largest contributor to the online learning market. This indicates a predicted shift in the distribution of online learning activities towards Asia-Pacific countries, potentially driven by factors such as increasing internet access, rising demand for education and skills development, and technological advancements in the region. As a result, we can anticipate significant growth and opportunities in the online learning sector in Asia-Pacific over the coming years, highlighting the region’s importance in shaping the future of digital education globally.

By 2025, the global online education market is projected to reach $319.167 billion.

The statistic indicates the projected growth of the global online education market, which is estimated to reach $319.167 billion by the year 2025. This figure serves as a forecast of the market size and economic value of online education services across the world, encompassing various forms of digital learning platforms and virtual educational resources. The projected growth suggests a significant increase in the demand for online education, likely driven by factors such as advancements in technology, increasing access to the internet, flexibility in learning schedules, and the ongoing shift towards digitalization in education. This statistic underscores the growing importance and potential of online education in meeting the evolving needs and preferences of learners globally.

On average, students retain 25-60% more material when learning online compared to only 8-10% in a classroom.

The statistic suggests that students tend to retain a significantly higher percentage of material when learning online (25-60%) compared to traditional classroom settings (8-10%). This indicates that online learning may be a more effective and efficient method for knowledge retention and learning outcomes. The wider range of retention rates for online learning may be attributed to various factors such as flexibility in pacing, personalized learning experiences, interactive multimedia tools, and immediate feedback mechanisms. In contrast, the lower retention rates for classroom learning could be influenced by factors like passive learning methods, larger class sizes, and limited opportunities for individualized attention. Ultimately, these findings underscore the potential benefits of online learning in enhancing students’ retention of material compared to traditional classroom environments.

Around 46% of recent college graduates have taken at least one online course.

The statistic stating that around 46% of recent college graduates have taken at least one online course indicates a significant trend towards digital learning within higher education. This finding highlights the growing popularity and acceptance of online education among college students, with nearly half of graduates having supplemented their traditional in-person classroom experience with online courses. The widespread availability of online courses offers students opportunities for flexibility, convenience, and access to a broader range of educational resources. As technology continues to advance, we can expect this percentage to increase as online learning becomes an integral part of modern education.

It is estimated that by 2025, 58% of students worldwide will be enrolled in some kind of online education.

The statistic indicates that by the year 2025, it is projected that a significant proportion of students globally, approximately 58%, will be participating in various forms of online education. This suggests a growing trend towards the adoption of digital learning platforms and online educational resources among students across the world. Factors such as advancements in technology, increased accessibility to the internet, and the flexibility offered by online education programs are likely driving this shift. The statistic highlights the changing landscape of education, emphasizing the importance of incorporating digital tools and resources to cater to the diverse learning needs of students in a rapidly evolving and technology-driven society.

Around 70% of students globally report that they learn best at their own pace, which online learning allows.

The statistic that around 70% of students globally report they learn best at their own pace, which online learning allows, suggests a predominant preference among students for personalized learning experiences. This finding highlights the appeal of online learning platforms that offer flexibility and autonomy in navigating educational content. By being able to progress through materials at their own speed, students can tailor their learning to align with their individual needs and preferences. This statistic reflects a growing trend in the educational landscape towards more student-centered approaches that accommodate diverse learning styles and paces, ultimately enhancing the overall effectiveness and satisfaction of the learning process.

The percentage of companies offering training on smartphones rose from 35% in 2010 to 59% in 2017.

The statistic provided indicates a significant increase in the percentage of companies that offer training on smartphones over the period from 2010 to 2017. Specifically, the percentage rose from 35% in 2010 to 59% in 2017, reflecting a notable shift in the training landscape towards incorporating smartphone technology. This upward trend suggests that employers are recognizing the importance of adapting their training programs to align with advancements in technology, specifically in the realm of smartphones. The increase in companies offering smartphone training may indicate a growing emphasis on mobile learning, remote training options, or the use of smartphone applications for skill development in the workplace.

By 2022, the number of mobile learning users is expected to reach 2.7 billion.

The statistic suggests that by the year 2022, there is an estimated expectation that the number of individuals engaging in mobile learning activities will rise substantially to reach 2.7 billion users worldwide. This prediction highlights the increasing trend and popularity of using mobile devices as a platform for accessing educational content and resources. The significant growth in mobile learning users signifies the evolving landscape of education and the shift towards more flexible and convenient learning opportunities that cater to a diverse global audience. The statistic underscores the importance of technology in education and the widespread adoption of mobile devices as a primary tool for learning in the modern era.

References

0. – https://www.elearningindustry.com

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7. – https://www.www.shiftelearning.com

8. – https://www.www.northeastern.edu

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How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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