1. According to a recent study, as many as one quarter of all couples first met online as online dating has become a major factor in the dating scene. 2. The number of students taking distance education or online courses has increased dramatically, rising from 3 million in 2000 to over 12 million in 2007. Over 25% of all students now take at least one online course. 3. The growth in online learning is being driven by both traditional digital native students and large numbers of adult learners seeking more flexible, convenient educational options that fit their lives and careers. This trend is expected to continue increasing the number of online students and programs in the coming decade.