On May 21, 2025, at the Polytechnic Summit hosted by UW-Stout, a team (Laura Reisinger, Kristal Gerdes, Maria Stone, and Eli Aba) led by Kelly Droege presented their research that examined how polytechnic universities can leverage online course design to better prepare graduates for the workforce. The session highlighted the power of blending academic rigor with applied learning, while acknowledging challenges like declining enrollment and inconsistent online course quality.
Findings from the mixed-methods study revealed how instructors view quality online course design and offered practical, scalable strategies to align courses with industry needs, boost student engagement, and improve persistence.
Attendees left with actionable ideas for refining online programs to strengthen career readiness, enhance retention, and keep polytechnic institutions at the forefront of workforce development.