While the demand for training and education for risk managers has not waned despite the struggling economy, many are increasingly turning to online courses as a way to save money while still expanding their expertise, the nation's biggest corporate buyer association suggests.

Mike McDonald, board member and board liaison to the professional development committee for the Risk and Insurance Management Society–which offers the Associate in Risk Management (ARM) designation, among others–said that with travel budgets down, RIMS has moved more toward virtual learning.

RIMS has increased the number of online courses it provides, while offering more webinars and recorded podcasts, according to Mr. McDonald. "This was a growing trend anyway before the recession hit," he acknowledged, but added there has been more of a swing toward online content and a reduction in onsite meetings recently, which has been a "direct reflection of what is going on in the economy."