Distance Learning in Certified Public Manager® Programs

By Robert Shick, Ph.D.
Rutgers University School of Public affairs and Administration
USDA/Rutgers University CPM Program 

The National CPM Consortium conducted a survey of its member programs on their experience with distance leaning methods such as online courses. The Consortium recognizes the growing importance of distance learning at all levels of education and training and wants to be prepared to lead CPM programs in this critical area.

The 16-question survey was focused on:

• The policies, procedures and guidelines for the programs that were using distance learning

• Plans to use distance learning in the future

• Experience with distance learning in the past, and

• Concerns about distance learning.

The survey was sent to all 30 Accredited and Active Members and 6 Associate Members of the Consortium. Twenty-eight responses were received for a 78 percent response rate.

The major findings of the survey are:

• More than half or 54% of the programs currently use distance learning with two-thirds using a mixture of online and in-person content, and one program that is totally online;

• Most programs use the guidelines for distance learning regarding academic integrity and other relevant standards of the university with which they are affiliated;

• Future plans for distance learning are varied across the programs, with a preference for “blended” or “hybrid” programs that provide a mixture of learning environments; and

• Concerns about distance learning include ensuring that it is used appropriately, how to count distance learning courses in the CPM curriculum, and ensuring the quality of distance learning courses.

Through the survey, the Consortium confirmed the importance of distance learning to CPM programs. The Consortium voted to establish a Standing Committee on Distance Learning at its recent annual meeting to continue to focus attention on distance learning and to remain current on developments in this field and its application to CPM programs.

© Copyright 2009, American Association of Certified Public Managers®