The technology behind online MBA programmes: an explainer

Online MBA programmes represent an evolution in business education, but it’s also fair to say that they also represent an evolution in higher education technology.

That’s because online MBAs – Master of Business Administration (MBA) degrees that are delivered virtually and off-campus – and executive MBAs are made possible by online learning technologies that enable students to enjoy a learning experience that rivals traditional in-person educational experiences.

These part-time, distance learning courses provide business professionals with the opportunity to hone their leadership skills and enhance their career prospects without the need to attend on-campus classes. They usually mirror the curriculum of their on-campus counterparts, and often offer opportunities for specialisations in areas such as entrepreneurship, finance, or even healthcare. 

The online MBA’s most popular trait, though, is its flexibility, allowing students to complete their studies around full-time work and personal commitments – and this is all made possible through technology.

How online MBA programmes use technology 

Online MBA programmes typically leverage a variety of integrated technological tools and platforms to create an helpful, interactive learning environment. 

Key features usually include:

• Communication sharing applications. An online learning platform will have a dedicated space for educators to share course information and announcements, as well as course content, assignments, exams, and results.
• Interactive applications. Through online learning platforms, students can take tests, submit assignments, and actively participate in discussions with classmates and academic staff. There are typically a variety of tools – such as discussion forums, video conferencing, in-platform social media, and so on– to facilitate collaboration and virtual face-to-face interactions.
• Asynchronous and real-time learning. Online MBA courses often offer a blend of asynchronous learning – allowing learners to complete coursework at their own pace – and real-time sessions for live interaction with peers and instructors. Online learning technology makes this possible, ensuring that students can complete coursework any time, from anywhere, as well as join live lectures, seminars, and discussions when required.
• Adaptive learning. Online platforms are increasingly able to offer personalised learning experiences. For example, adaptive learning technologies can tailor coursework based on an individual person’s progress and understanding.

Common platforms

There are a variety of different learning management systems (LMS) and tools used for online MBA programmes. 

Learning management systems (LMS)

These systems are widely used for course management, providing a centralised location for online course materials, assignments, and feedback. Examples include:

• Canvas. Canvas is an open-source LMS that emphasises engaging learning experiences.
• Moodle. Moodle is another open-source eLearning platform that’s focused on “flexible, secure, and customisable” teaching.
• Blackboard. Blackboard is an LMS focused on creating efficiencies for educators and inclusive online education experiences for students.

Video conference tools

These tools are staples for live lectures, seminars, and group discussions, enabling the open dialogue of a classroom environment to occur online. Examples include:

• Zoom. Zoom supports video calls and meetings.
• Microsoft Teams. Microsoft Teams is similar to Zoom, but can also integrate with other Microsoft products, such as Outlook.

Coursework and collaboration tools

While coursework and collaboration can often be completed within a LMS, business schools and universities may also use other tools to support practical work and real-time collaboration on projects and assignments. Examples include:

• Google Workspace. Google Workspace for Education is similar to a LMS and integrates with other Google products that support communication and collaboration, such as Gmail, Google Classroom, and Google Docs.
• Microsoft 365. Microsoft 365 offers a suite of products commonly used by students within higher education, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

And regardless of what MBA students go on to do post-graduation, whether it’s managing a team or leading a startup, being comfortable with these tools will stand them in good stead for an increasingly digital business world.

The infrastructure behind online MBA programmes

Regardless of a university’s accreditation or MBA ranking, behind any successful online MBA programme lies a robust technological infrastructure, one that’s supported by wider institutional staff and services.

For example, university and business school IT teams will ensure that all platforms are secure and scalable. These platforms are typically cloud-based and support reliable content hosting. There will also be advanced cybersecurity measures in place to protect student data and intellectual property. 

And underpinning all of this will be a collaborative collection of academic and support staff who are dedicated to creating a seamless, high-quality learning experience for online MBA students. These teams ensure that staff know how the technology works and understand the importance of engaging with the learning platforms – as well as the students on the learning platforms.

Emerging technologies in online MBA programmes

Educational methodology and teaching approaches evolve over time, and the same is true for educational technology. It adapts and advances to offer new tools and enhance the way online MBA programmes are delivered. 

One of these emerging areas is in artificial intelligence (AI), which is helping to support personalised learning paths, automated grading systems, and even AI-driven tutoring services. This technology can also play an important role in analysing student data to improve course content and delivery.

Another area is virtual reality (VR), which can offer immersive learning experiences and enable students to participate in real-world business scenario simulations through VR headsets. This engaging, hands-on approach to learning can even support greater understanding of complex concepts and develop more confident decision-making skills in MBA graduates.

“In the end, we must work with these technologies ourselves to prepare our students for the new business world to come. If our students aren’t ready for what the future holds, they could quickly become obsolete in important ways that we may not fully understand right now,” argues a recent blog from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). “The takeaway is, if we as faculty are not staying abreast of disruptive technologies such as AI, we will face an even bigger task down the line. In short, as the famous quote says, innovate or die.”

How to navigate the virtual learning environment 

Navigating the virtual learning environment after enrollment on an online MBA programme often requires a proactive and disciplined approach. With this in mind, it can be helpful to:

• Familiarise yourself with the technology. Before the programme begins, take the time to learn about the platforms and tools you’ll be using.
• Stay organised. To manage your workload effectively, keep track of assignments, deadlines, and virtual meetings in one place alongside any networking events, internships, or personal or professional commitments. Make sure you know when you’ll be studying and where you’ll be joining any online sessions. 
• Engage actively. Participate in discussions, group projects, and virtual networking opportunities to make the most of your online learning experience. Use your professional work experiences as real-life case studies to support your learning, too.

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