A Summary of Scholarly Research on the Efficacy of Distance Learning (DL) Relative to Traditional Classroom Learning
Abstract
The efficacy of distance learning (DL) relative to traditional classroom learning has been studied extensively, and there has been considerable debate over whether the type of educational delivery format influences learning outcomes and whether the different types of DL should even be examined comparatively. A significant amount of academic research has assessed the relative quality of different types of DL in higher education with varying results. A review of a selection of meta-analyses of prior research and individual comparative studies indicates that the results are mixed: many applications of DL outperform their classroom counterparts, and many perform more poorly. Studies comparing the effectiveness of two versions of the same course, one DL and one face-to-face, with no other variability, have found no significant differences. Other studies have found that mixed-method or blended learning formats may result in better learning outcomes than DL or face-to-face instruction alone. And there are many best practices in DL and blended learning formats relevant to the DRMI teaching model.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1118300
Entities
People
- Peter D Bertelsen
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School