Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this quantitative, descriptive study is to examine the perceptions of California Community College administrators regarding participation in the California Virtual Campus - Online Education Initiative (CVC-OEI) and the effects their involvement may have on distance education and total enrollments.Theoretical Framework. Martin Deutsch's work on The Theory of Cooperation and Competition (2006) served as the theoretical foundation for this study, specifically focusing on the aspects of cooperation and positive interdependence.Methodology. A questionnaire was used to collect data on the perceived effectiveness of various elements of the CVC-OEI on increasing enrollment through the use of Distance Education. The questionnaire was completed by 71 California Community College administrators with significant influence in the areas of distance education and enrollment management on their campuses in the state of California.Findings and Conclusions. The findings from this study provide a first look at how administrators feel their participation in the California Virtual Campus-Online Education Initiative (CVC-OEI) will effect enrollment on their campus and for the consortium a whole. Cooperation in this initiative showed an expectation from administrators that it would be effective in improving online programs and services leading to higher distance education and traditional enrollments at their college and for the entire consortium.Recommendations. As the CVC-OEI is still in a pilot phase, it is impossible to verify the validity of perceptions and expectations provided in this study. Further research is recommended for when all elements of the CVC-OEI have been activated for all consortium members. It is further recommended that some historical research be conducted on the distance education and traditional enrollments at the participating colleges prior to offering courses in the exchange. Finally, the funding formula for California Community Colleges is changing to include student success metrics that should be considered in any future examination.