Distance Education Before the Pandemic: Use and Enrollment Insights From the Civil Rights Data Collection

• In Event: Inequities of Distance Learning Pre- and Post-COVID

Abstract

Using data elements that are newly available as part of the U.S. Department of Education’s Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC), this study provides a national perspective on distance education in U.S. schools. It analyzes the characteristics of districts offering distance education, compares them with districts across the nation, and analyzes the characteristics of students enrolled in distance education, showing demographic areas in which enrollments differ proportionately from public school enrollment overall. Implementation of distance education in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has challenged schools’ ability to fulfill their responsibilities to all students in such unprecedented circumstances. This study’s findings provide insight into distance education use and infrastructure prior to the pandemic and provides considerations for current and future implementation.

Authors

• Julia Bloom-Weltman, Applied Engineering Management

• Marshal Fettro, Applied Engineering Management Corporation

• Lauren E Jetty, Applied Engineering Management Corporation

• Sarah Meholick, Applied Engineering Management Corporation

• Clover Quigley, Quality Information Partners