Beyond Flexibility: The Priorities Driving Online Learner Success
Posted by Andy Freed
Presenters: Gloria Bryant (Online Student Success Manager)
In this presentation, Gloria Bryant shares insights from the Spring Priority Survey for Online Learners (PSOL). Out of nearly 13,000 eligible online students at Portland Community College, over 2,400 completed the survey, providing strong data on student priorities. Gloria breaks down the core demographics of online learners, highlighting a trend toward younger students taking online classes.
The presentation covers the top 10 priorities identified by online students, separated into PCC’s top five strengths and top five challenge areas. Key strengths include clear syllabus definitions, helpful online course tools, and courses aligned with educational goals. Primary challenges include consistency in course quality across different instructors, clear program requirements, and course availability. Finally, Gloria introduces a three-circles framework (Control, Influence, Concern) to help faculty and staff translate these survey findings into actionable improvements.
Links & Resources
- Presentation Slides: Beyond Flexibility Presentation Slides
Learning Outcomes
- Identify items of high importance to current PCC online learners.
- Understand the specific strengths and challenges where PCC is meeting or missing online student expectations.
- Discover practical ideas and focus areas to guide future online course and service improvements.
Post generated by CTLE Web Designer Gem on 09/24/2026
About Andy Freed
I'm the Director of Learning Technology & Innovation (LTI!), where I oversee our infrastructure, technical support, and the innovation hub. I've been with the College since 2001 and have worked in several positions, from technical suppo... more »