I've long drawn comparisons between developments in traditional sectors like news, media, and publishing and developments within the education market (particularly higher education). Mainstream Media Meltdown details the current fate of media. When the end user is in control (in this case with tools for creation and consumption of digital media), the power balance (or relationship) with formal content creators also changes. We are seeing some development in the education market on this level already. Online educators are positioned to erode the continuing education market of many colleges and universities (though at this stage, it's speculation on my part - I'm not familiar with research that completely validates this view).
Content providers (textbooks) are also facing challenges from resources available online. I can't help but feel that the industry is being held together by the frail commitment of instructors requiring textbooks. If my experience is any indication, students are more fickle about buying textbooks. Even in the last 5+ years, I've noticed a significant increase in the number of students in my classes who try and get by without texts (I don't know whether the concern is financial or that the textbooks are seen as unnecessary). My advice to publishers: learn the lesson of media companies: provide resources that are focused on learners needs - they are your true customers (even though your sales agents focus exclusively on faculty). Chunk your content, provide value (even some open access resources is nice). See students as a relationship to be formed, not a sales target.
Posted by gsiemens at November 15, 2005 5:21 PM