E-Learning Business Models: Framework and Best Practice Examples

Abstract

According to several forecasts given by Gartner Group or International Data Corporation, for example, e-learning as a new buzzword for Web-based education and its commercialization seems to be a growing market in the digital economy. This case study will analyze this new and dynamic e-learning market and the corresponding changes on the education market. A framework of the different education models that have already developed on the e-learning market will be introduced and their benefits and risks discussed. Several cases demonstrate the new e-learning models in action. Therefore, this contribution consists of several smaller cases that can be used for getting an overview of the e-learning market and for a discussion about e-learning as a promising e-commerce application on the Internet.