Online learning is nothing new. Colleges and universities provide online programs that enable working adults to take classes. Professional development and classes for re-certifications are offered via online means. Homeschooled K-12 students utilize numerous online programs to obtain specialized instruction and build connections. What is new is the scope of online learning--the sheer number of people participating in online education is historic.
The Department of Defense (DoD) has been focused on increasing the scope and effectiveness of online learning for a number of years. In fact, Enterprise Digital Modernization Learning reform started in 2018 to improve how DoD purchases and maintains its digital learning software and services, while modernizing systems. The DoD has been working on a consolidated course catalog that makes it easier to search for available courses across the vast DoD enterprise.