Cost‐benefit analysis of telelearning: Developing a methodology framework

Abstract

Although costs and benefits of distance education have been evaluated, there are few examples where a cost‐benefit analysis has been applied to a variety of different educational technologies. This paper summarises some of the cost‐benefit methodologies expressed in the academic literature. The examples presented here have been categorised into four main groups, representing the different approaches to cost‐benefit analysis for technology and distance education: values, mathematical models, comparative studies, and return of investment Finally, an integrated methodology useful in the evaluation of educational technologies is presented.