The press release states "the studies of more recent online instruction included in this meta-analysis found that, on average, online learning, at the post-secondary level, is not just as good as but more effective than conventional face-to-face instruction."
- "Learning outcomes for students who engaged in online learning exceeded those of students receiving face-to-face instruction, with an average effect size of +0.24 favoring online conditions."
- "Instruction combining online and face-to-face elements had a larger advantage relative to purely face-to-face instruction than did purely online instruction."
Upon a more thorough analysis, I am certain we will find some concerns with the reported findings. As a community of practitioners it is important for us to evaluate these findings and compare them to our own research and experience.
- What does this mean for you?
- Your school?
- Your students?
- The future of online education?
The full report can be found at http://www.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf
Thank-you for sharing! Very informative information... I do sometimes wonder if the fact that I am getting my degree on line will allow someone with a traditional school background to get hired before me. I think that on-line classes are far different than they used to be. I had taken a couple many years back and did not care for them. There was an effort toward community, but it wasn't there. I think Walden has done a good job with this aspect. It reminds me of the middle school concept where you have the whole, but you also have pods within the whole to help feel a part of a small unit within the greater whole. I am probably more mature and disciplined at this point also:)
ReplyDeleteI do sometimes miss sitting in a class and the environment that surrounds that. However, I like the flexibility and the fact that I do not have to take time away from my family. I can work on school when they are busy. I also gain an hour minimum by not traveling to class.
Your post was food for thought...
I have worried about the same thing. And while I have no illusions that this report by the DOE will necessarily change the way my State University system looks at online degrees, I do think its findings, and their willingness to publish them is a step in the right direction.
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