Poliakoff, M. (2010) Cutting Costs: A Trustees Guide to Tough Economic Times Washington DC: American Council for Trustees and Alumni Institute for Effective Governance
Driven by tough economic times in the USA, this document outlines 20 ways to reduce costs, arguing that
‘two-thirds of today’s college graduates took out loans to complete school, accumulating an average debt of more than $23,000. It is surely not the time to balance your university’s budget with higher tuitions and student fees.’
Interestingly, one recommendation is to increase online distance education offerings:
‘Though they require infrastructure, staffing, and expertise to succeed, online programs have far more reach per dollar than a capital building project.’
Although I would agree with this claim, unfortunately no data are provided to substantiate it. There are a number of other interesting, useful if difficult recommendations in this report.
Dr. Tony Bates is the author of eleven books in the field of online learning and distance education. He has provided consulting services specializing in training in the planning and management of online learning and distance education, working with over 40 organizations in 25 countries. Tony is a Research Associate with Contact North | Contact Nord, Ontario’s Distance Education & Training Network.
