29 Astonishing E-learning Statistics for 2023

With tech breaking the boundaries of how learners can learn, education is now more accessible than ever for students, employees, and lifelong learners.

Capitalizing on the massive demand spike during the pandemic, the corporate e-learning market alone will grow by 142% by 2026. With big data, AI, and machine learning, e-learning has revolutionized how people can acquire skills and knowledge to get by in the 21st century. 

Let’s check out some stats!

Impressive E-Learning Statistics for 2023

E-learning makes education more accessible for those who cannot afford formal education. In many ways, it equalizes the playing field for those born in more marginalized backgrounds.

Furthermore, e-learning gives learners an opportunity to explore topics that interest them without having to spend enormous amounts of money through its virtual classrooms. Online learning can also collect data to identify students' strengths and weaknesses and use big data to improve learning experiences.

It’s no wonder e-learning is popular for both adults and kids. Let’s check out some relevant stats!

1. The massive open online course (MOOC) market could be worth $25.33 billion by 2025.

(Globe News Wire) 

MOOCs are free online learning platforms that allow unlimited participation by students worldwide. It provides practical courses, resources, forums for discussion, and quizzes for students. 

Following the establishment of the first MOOC platform in 2006, many other valuable ones have been created, including:

• Udemy
• Coursera
• edX
• Udacity

Right now, the MOOC market is worth around $5.16 billion. It will grow at an annual rate of 32.09% until 2025.

The rise of MOOCs helps the digital learning industry grow and makes educational content accessible to the general public. It enables access to quality education from industry experts to many people. MOOCs also advocate for continuous education, especially for adults who want to upskill.

2. The forecast for the US e-learning market expects $12.81 billion in growth between 2020 and 2024.

(Market Research)

Statistics on e-learning in the US indicate that 63% of high school students use digital learning tools daily. 45% of elementary school students use at least one digital learning tool daily. Moreover, 64% of middle school students use one digital learning tool daily.

A good percentage of American graduates (52%) and undergraduates (39%) consider online learning better than classroom learning. 

These numbers show that e-learning can benefit people from various educational backgrounds.

3. Mobile learning could reach $80.1 billion worldwide by 2027.

(Globe News Wire)

Mobile learning remains one of the fastest-growing markets in the sector. It has maintained an average steady growth rate of over 20% over the past few years.

The mobile learning market grew steadily from its $7.98 billion value in 2015 to a whopping $22.4 billion market value in 2020. 

Experts predict the mobile e-learning market will reach $80.1 billion by 2027.

With the public’s interest in education and ever-evolving mobile phone technology, the future is bright for this sector. 

4. AR and VR are key trends that could drive the e-learning sector forward in the next few years.

(Globe News Wire)

Mobile learning and other forms of e-learning show immense potential for more authentic education. Augmented reality and virtual reality technology push the boundaries of learning further through creating immersive experiences immersive experiences. These experiences make learning more practical, effective, and enjoyable. 

However, the 2022 statistics for e-learning predict that VR and AR's versatility can help developers elevate the online learning scene.  

With AR's functionality and VR's game-changing qualities, it’s no wonder the educational sector will take advantage of both. 

5. The corporate e-learning market could increase by $38.09 billion between 2020 and 2024.

(Business Wire)

On average, companies spend around $3,000 to onboard a new employee. However, companies can cut costs and make onboarding and upskilling efficient and accessible through online e-learning platforms.

Corporate e-learning refers to employees' online training while employed by a specific company. It might include conferences, workshops, products, sales, and recruitment training. As corporate e-learning maneuvers businesses away from traditional and expensive training classrooms, more doors for further employee benefits open. 

Current predictions expect an 11% CAGR in this market from 2020 to 2024. As businesses gear up for seamless and convenient onboarding programs, the corporate e-learning market will likely expand.

6. Corporate e-learning takes 40% to 60% less time than traditional learning.

(eLearning Industry)

On average, training and development in the workplace allot only 1% of the total work week. Providing e-learning programs may also help with employee engagement.

Employee engagement is a critical factor in workplace employee retention. Those who are highly engaged are 87% less likely to leave their place of work.

E-learning is both a luxury and a big boost that ensures faster learning capacity. Organizations must maximize their training time to get the best results.

General E-learning Statistics

Industry leaders and high-ranking formal education institutions offer and develop many online courses. Many of those who developed them are experts in their field and have years of experience.

It’s no wonder why e-learning has attracted so many people who would otherwise not have the time and budget to study in a physical classroom. This new type of learning lets users adapt their studies to their timing and convenience.

The number of e-learning users will surpass 57 million by 2027. Dive into the next section to learn how e-learning is changing the world!

7. The worldwide e-learning market will be worth $848.12 billion in 2030.

(Globe Newswire, ProProfs)

With the 2021 figures clutching $210.1 billion, this 2030 prediction means the market will have nearly tripled in a decade.

The high for online learning is because it's cost-effective and beneficial to a company's bottom line. Moreover, it benefits organizations, as every dollar invested in e-learning and training correlates to a $30 employee productivity increase.

Furthermore, it reduces turnover rates and translates to a quicker resumption of work. It also allows learners to apply skills immediately.

8. 2 in 5 Fortune 500 companies use online learning solutions.

(Website Rating, Exploding Topics)

Stats on online education show that 2 in 5 of the largest companies in the US are also taking advantage of it.

About 61% of experts say these companies use the platforms to close their employees' skill gaps. Almost 46% say growth is their priority, while nearly 44% want to improve employee engagement.

E-learning is no longer a preserve for individuals looking to further their studies; many companies also use it.

9. Mobile e-learning is expected to reach $80 billion by 2027.

(Earthweb)

Digital learning via smartphones has achieved a 20% growth rate over the years. According to the 2022 smartphone e-learning market size forecasts, its value will hit $80 billion by 2027.

Smartphone ownership will reach nearly 4 billion. Since more and more people access the internet through their smartphones, people will likely have more chances to bring growth to the e-learning industry.

10. Business retention rates are increasing and have smashed to 60% from 25% with the help of e-learning. 

(SH!FT)

In contrast, retention rates for face-to-face training are much lower: 8% to 10%. 

Moreover, if they need to remember something, they can revisit materials or retake online quizzes if they fail. E-learning takes a lot of pressure off and allows them to focus on actually learning.

Through this, students have more control over their learning process with e-learning.

11. Over 142% growth is predicted for the corporate e-learning market from 2021 to 2026.

(StratView Research)

E-learning stats show the corporate e-learning market teetered at $37.1 billion in 2021. 

However, it will grow at a CAGR of 16.2%, hitting almost $90 billion by 2026.

Considering e-learning's string of benefits for businesses, growth is imminent for the industry. 

12. A 42% revenue increase occurred in US organizations after using e-learning. 

(eLearning industry)

Nearly half of US corporations are reaping the benefits of e-learning. Organizations and associations shifted their training approach towards a mixed learning and e-learning method, ultimately lowering operational costs while keeping the onboarding program straightforward. 

Most companies now virtualize training programs and strategically introduce live instructors to strengthen learning. 

Incorporating innovative practices and ideas in developing e-learning platforms for businesses could further boost the industry. 

13. Companies with ‘comprehensive training programs’ earn 218% more and reap 24% higher profit margins. 

(E-learning Infographics)

The American Society for Training and Development surveyed 2,500 companies to examine their training programs and profit margins. 

Companies with a “comprehensive training program” had 218% higher revenue and a high 24% profit margin. 

About 51% of employees also confirmed that e-learning positively affected their happiness in the workplace, further promoting a better workplace culture. 

Over half of businesses intend to make future investments in virtual collaboration solutions, as they believe that it pays to invest in their employees' education. 

14. Implementing e-learning brought over $200 million worth of savings for US tech corporations. 

(SH!FT)

Online learning can reduce companies’ instructor costs and other expenses related to travel, hotel rentals, and equipment–IBM confirmed this after implementing e-learning. 

This is especially important when employees live in different cities, countries, or continents.

Employing strategic instructor incorporation in e-learning programs creates a win-win situation for business owners who save money and instructors who can work from home. 

E-Learning Trends In and Out of Academia

The US is at the forefront of the trend surrounding using e-learning tools in high schools. However, the UK isn’t far behind after delivering 1.35 million e-learning tools around England. 

Dive into the statistics surrounding e-learning and how it has changed academia.

15. 43% of US college students found digital study technologies helpful.

(Statista)

Previously, you had to complete your homework in the college library. However, students can now access these files through an ebook. 

This speaks about the growth of online education and how technology helps students with their studies. Technology has continued to grow and has drastically changed people's lives. By 2030, 500 billion devices will be internet-connected, making e-learning more accessible.

All economic sectors, not just the education industry, must keep up with rapidly advancing technology to be included. 

16. 56% of US college students used laptops in the classroom during a typical week.

(Statista)

Note-taking on your laptop is much easier, especially for big lecture classes. The latest research shows over 1.28 billion people use tablets, with a 51% weekly usage rate.

With more classrooms introducing dynamic e-learning strategies and techniques, such devices are necessary in modern academia. 

17. 81% of US college students agreed that digital learning technology helped them improve their grades.

(Statista)

Even though instructors offer extended student support outside of class, they're not always available 24/7, at least not in person.

Many students now prefer to contact their professors via email, adding to the daily total of more than 300 billion emails sent.

Digital learning technology is there to help students whenever they need it. Whether it’s to access learning material stored online, join live online lectures, or organize submissions through an LMS, digital learning technologies are changing the game.  

18. Lack of training is the leading blocker for 41% of teachers incorporating technology in their classrooms. 

(Statista, and Jotform)

The lack of training is especially true for older teachers who grew up on more traditional educational technologies.

The good news is that this blocker is solvable by providing resources to educators. 

Considering the benefits proper technology handling can bring to the classroom, it’s worth paying the price. 

19. 49% of students worldwide tried at least one online course last year.

(Statista)

Online education statistics have dramatically increased from the initial 46% figure in 2013. If you want to learn German or learn how to code, or get certification for project management, e-learning is for you.

Even top universities like Harvard are cashing in. In the past few years, it’s made some of its most popular courses available to the public.

20. As of 2022, 220 million people had subscribed to at least one MOOC course.

(The Report)

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) entered the market in 2011. It met popular demand, with students signing up in record numbers worldwide.

Both physical and virtual universities now offer MOOCs. Even governments are joining to offer country-specific versions.

In 2021 alone, MOOCs had a whopping 40 million sign-ups. The number of sign-ups quickly rose to 220 million by 2022. 

MOOCs are a go-to for individuals who wish to build their skill set and enrich their knowledge in their own time. 

21. E-Learning courses use 90% less energy and make 85% less CO2 than in-person classes. 

(SH!FT, College Stats)

E-Learning statistics show online education can help address pressing climate change concerns, with universities leading the way. 

The Open University is Britain's most extensive online university. The University of Phoenix-Arizona is ranked first in the US, with 320,973 students.

As the world presses for more sustainable options, e-learning courses are on a speed run for growth. Since online learning does not have to take place in a physical classroom, students do not need to drive or commute to learn.

They can just lounge around in their pajamas and still learn just as much!

22. The Learning Management System (LMS) market will grow by 14.2% between 2022 and 2029.

(Globe NewsWire)

There has been an increasing demand for interactive content that LMS offers. In 2021, this field was only worth $14.43 billion.

Online education will reach $40.95 billion by 2029. That will be a CAGR of nearly 14.2% during the 2022-2029 prediction period.

As businesses hop on the e-learning train, LMSs will soon be at the forefront of centralizing business content and tailoring it toward employee use. 

23. 33% of higher education administrators will offer remote classes once the campus reopens. 

(EducationData.org)

Remote classes and e-learning temporarily solved the unavailability of in-person classes during COVID. 

However, 33% of university administrators are changing up the field of education by offering online and remote lectures even after the campus fully reopens after the pandemic. 

Statistics like this prove that more educational institutions recognize the value and benefits of online learning to students.

Eye-Catching Stats and Facts

E-learning has become a hallmark of the US educational model at all levels. In the country, 90% of K-12 schools have access to one computer per five students. Additionally, 98% of US classrooms have access to the Internet.

Check out e-learning's growth, impact, and significance in the US and globally through the statistics below. 

24. Self-paced learning is expected to grow 8.2% CAGR between 2021 and 2026.

(Digital Journal)

Choosing when to learn is attractive, especially for people with hectic schedules. It’s no wonder self-paced learning has been experiencing exponential growth over the years.

It is likely to reach $10.13 billion by 2026. More than double its $5.8 billion worth in 2019.

There are many benefits to self-paced learning. Some of the most striking ones are:

• Developing ownership of learning
• Gaining better insights into learning
• Having the freedom to use varying models of learning
• Fostering willingness to try out new things and upskill
• Boosting self-esteem and self-reflection

As more people realize they don’t have to choose between working and learning, the self-paced learning industry’s future is bright. 

25. The US government allocated $65 billion for high-speed internet for its citizens.

(GMI)

The US government passed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, in late 2021. It will ensure that its population has reliable internet access.

The policy will enable cloud management platforms like IBM Corporation, Amazon Web Services, or Microsoft Corporation to offer better services. Since they support digital learning, the industry will see more people join online learning.

On top of that, high-speed internet makes the e-learning experience more seamless through:

• Better learning productivity
• Lower levels of stress
• Enhanced user security
• Lower costs for education
• Increased communication and collaboration between teachers and learners

Having high-speed internet is a basic need in this age of information and technology. 

26. 41% of college students liked e-learning better than in-person classes. 

(EducationData.org)

Online education allows students to take a more flexible approach to their learning. Unlike physical classrooms, you can register for an online course anytime.

More than that, you can also meet at any time convenient, evenings and weekends included, putting it in favor of 41% of college learners in 2020 instead of in-person college. 

Once developers learn to bridge existing gaps in current e-learning technology, more students will hop on the trend and cement the place of e-learning in the industry.  

27. Around 65% of US faculty members advocate for online learning courses and educational resources.

(DDIY)

As you can see, students aren't the only ones happy with the rise of e-learning.

Online learning courses and resources make it easier for instructors to archive educational materials and tailor them for subsequent use than faulty physical textbooks, notepads, etc. 

Not to mention, making physical instructional materials is more exhaustive compared to encoding learning courses on a laptop or computer. 

As schools further push for incorporating technology in the daily classroom, a fully online learning management system isn’t far off. 

28. The German e-learning market will have a growth rate of 22% by 2028.

(GMI)

E-Learning statistics predict that educational learning management systems will grow by 28% for European countries in 2028—an endeavor that local governments support. 

The Berlin State Department signed a contract in 2021 to help local schools offer LMS. 

This statistic shows that while the US is at the forefront of e-learning development, it is still taking the rest of the world by storm. 

29. The e-learning market is now 22 years old.

(SH!FT)

The word e-learning was coined in 1998, the year Google launched. You could have Googled it back then.

It only took e-learning two decades to grow into the booming educational system it is today. This success is attributed to its cost-effective nature, flexibility, and easily customizable options. 

Wrapping Up

E-learning is the next best thing in revolutionizing education, with more academic institutions and companies joining in to boost their productivity and overall output in this tech-enhanced world.

With e-learning’s potential to transform how we think about knowledge transfer, educators are no longer confined to the ivory tower. E-learning gives learners the power to learn at their own pace and in their own time, providing them valuable insights on what works or doesn’t work for them.