A comparative study about the effectiveness of Lessons
Retainment: Online Class vs. Face to Face Classes
INTRODUCTION
Traditional or face-to-face instructional environments have been chastised for encouraging passive learning, ignoring individual
differences and requirements, and failing to address problem solving, critical thinking, and other higher-order thinking skills (Banathy,
1994; Hannum & Briggs, 1982). Education and training have faced new difficulties and opportunities as a result of improvements in
Internet-based technology, particularly through online instruction. Distance education delivered over the Internet is known as online
instruction. This style of instruction is seen as a huge breakthrough in teaching and learning by many since it allows for the exchange
of information and expertise while also offering possibilities for all types of learners in remote or underserved areas. While online
learning is becoming more popular, it is not without criticism. Many educators and trainers are skeptical about online learning because
they believe it does not solve complex teaching and learning problems. Others are concerned about the numerous impediments that
prevent efficient online teaching and learning (Conlon, 1997). The changing nature of technology, the complexity of networked
systems, the lack of stability in online learning settings, and a lack of knowledge of how much students and instructors need to know
to engage successfully are among these problems (Brandt, 1996). Online learning also risks commercializing education, isolating
students and professors, and lowering or even devaluing university degrees (Gallick, 1998).
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Advocates of Internet-based education are generally positive and hopeful about its possibilities (Relan & Gillani, 1997). However,
numerous obstacles must be overcome before it can be fully embraced by the general public and educational community (Hill, 1997).
The ability to meet the expectations and goals of both the teacher and the student, as well as how to create online courses that provide
a satisfying and successful learning environment, are among the most significant of these problems. Understanding these difficulties is
crucial for the development and implementation of effective online training from the standpoint of program developers and instructors.
While there have been few experimental research comparing the effectiveness of online training to more traditional face-to-face
instruction, two recent studies show hopeful results for online instruction producers. Schutte (1997) conducted a small-scale
experiment in which he separated a class of 33 pupils into two sections, one traditional and the other virtual (WWW). Despite the fact
that his research was defective due to a lack of control over teaching methods and the amount of student interaction, the results
revealed that online instruction can boost performance. In a similar study, LaRose, Gregg, and Eastin (1998) compared the
performance of students in a standard lecture section to that of students in a course section that supplied prerecorded audio over the
WWW, as well as full course outlines and related course pages available via the Web. The Web group had exam scores and student
attitude evaluations that were comparable to the traditional segment. While these quasi-experimental studies have methodological
limitations (e.g., dealing with small sample sizes, the effect of prior knowledge, etc), they are an important first step toward better
understanding the impact of online training on learning outcomes and student outcomes.
Satisfaction is linked to beliefs about one's ability to succeed thoughts regarding the final results (Keller, 1983). Several studies have
looked into student satisfaction with online programs from this standpoint (Debourgh, 1998; Enockson, 1997; Johanson, 1996;
McCabe, 1997). In a study of distant education in a university context, Enockson (1997) discovered that students were satisfied with
online instruction because it offered flexibility and responsiveness to their learning needs and expectations.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Although there has been a tremendous increase in the number of online programs in recent years, despite the fact that such programs
have been there for years, their potential and efficacy have yet to be completely studied. The majority of effort in this field has gone
into program development, with anecdotal evaluations of program quality and effectiveness. The need for research in this field is not
only urgent, but also vital, given the lack of empirical understanding concerning the consequences of Internet-based education. The
main goal of this exploratory empirical study was to compare an online course to a typical face-to-face course. Student evaluations of
teacher and course quality were compared, as were assessments of course interaction, structure, and support, as well as learning
outcomes such course projects, grades, and student self-assessment of their potential to perform tasks.
Comparisons between online and face-to-face learning environments have been made because of the significant differences between
the two learning styles, they are frequently dismissed environments. This is a traditional comparison of apples and oranges. This type
of research should not attempt to determine if one fruit is superior than another. Instead, they should show that, when grown
appropriately, different plants can provide different results in terms of taste and nutritional content, fruits can be comparable. This
research aims to see if correctly built surroundings differ on a variety of levels. In terms of learning and satisfaction, these attributes
might be interchangeable. Studies this kind of thing is especially crucial because many faculty members are being asked to do things
they don't want to do. When it comes to designing and teaching Internet-based courses, many people ask if students are genuinely
interested. In these new online spaces, you can learn.
The purpose of this study was to find answers to the following research questions.
1. What distinctions exist between students enrolled in online versus face-to-face learning environments in terms of satisfaction with
their learning experience?
2. What distinctions exist between students enrolled in online versus face-to-face learning environments in terms of student/instructor
contact, course structure, and course support?
3. What differences in learning outcomes (i.e., perceived content) do you see students enrolled in online versus face-to-face learning
environments in terms of knowledge, quality of course projects, and final course grades)?
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
Classroom training, for starters and maybe most crucially, is tremendously dynamic. Traditional classroom learning delivers real-time
face-to-face training and encourages students to ask creative questions. It also enables for more flexible content distribution and
immediate teacher reaction. Because students must confine their queries to blurbs and then give the teacher and fellow classmates time
to react, online instruction slows down the learning process (Salcedo, 2010). Online teaching, on the other hand, is likely to develop
over time, boosting classroom dynamics and bringing students face-to-face with their classmates and professors. For the time being,
however, face-to-face instruction offers dynamic learning characteristics not seen in Web-based instruction (Kemp and Grieve, 2014).
Traditional classroom learning is a proven method. Some students are resistant to change and have a poor perception of online
learning. These kids may be technophobes, preferring to take notes in a classroom rather than absorbing information on a computer.
Face-to-face engagement, class debates, shared learning, and spontaneous student-teacher bonding may be valued by other students
(Roval and Jordan, 2004). They can regard the Internet as a barrier to learning. Some students may avoid classroom activities if they
are uncomfortable with the teaching medium; their grades may suffer, and their educational interest may fade. Students, on the other
hand, may eventually adjust to online learning. Students may be obliged to take just Web-based courses as more universities adopt
computer-based training. Although this is true, it does not negate the fact that some kids enjoy classroom intimacy.
Third, face-to-face training is not reliant on computer networks. The student's ability to learn online is contingent on having
unrestricted Internet access. Online students may be unable to communicate, submit assignments, or access study materials if technical
issues arise. As a result, the student may become frustrated, perform poorly, and lose interest in studying.
Fourth, students with a campus education have access to both accredited faculty and research libraries. Students can count on
administrators to help them choose courses and make professorial recommendations. Learners can use library technicians to help them
edit their papers, find useful study materials, and enhance their study habits. Materials not available on a computer may be found at
research libraries. Overall, the typical classroom experience provides students with vital auxiliary tools to help them do better in class.
SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS
Online and face-to-face learning methods each offer their own set of benefits and drawbacks. While many students still prefer the
discipline and familiarity that face-to-face studying provides, there is no doubting that online learning has numerous advantages. The
self-paced nature of eLearning content may appeal to today's learner as well as employers looking for new ways to manage staff
development and training in the post-COVID era.
This method of learning is more adaptable than traditional methods, and it is also more practical for students. However, because of
the distinct advantages of instructor-led training, many learners still prefer the presence of a live instructor to better internalize
knowledge. In their own ways, both learning approaches are extremely effective.
The sample group, student skills/abilities, and student experience with online training were all factors that contributed to the study's
limitations. The independent variables were not adjusted for real-world accuracy because this was a convenience, non-probability
sample. Second, when splitting comparison groups, student intelligence and skill level were not taken into account. It's possible that
the face-to-face students in this study were more capable than the online ones, and vice versa. This restriction also applies to
disparities in gender and social status (Friday et al., 2006). Finally, there may have been concerns with ease of familiarity between the
two groups of students. Students who have taken traditional classroom courses and are now attending Web-based courses may be
intimidated by the technical side of the format. They could not have had the requisite training or experience to effectively e-learn,
resulting in lower ratings (Helms, 2014).
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
No Bibliography Main Themes/ Methods Major Findings Recommendati
. Objective / Variables / Conclusion on
Main
Question
1 HEW, K.F., LO, C.K. Flipped classroom No meta- We focused This meta- Current Future research
improves student learning in health analysis specifically on analysis and evidence should also
professions education: a meta- has been a set of flipped review were suggests that examine the
analysis. BMC Med Educ 18, 38 (2018). published classroom carried out the flipped possible
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-018-1144-z that studies in according to classroom impact of
specificall which pre- the approach in video styles.
y examines recorded videos PRISMA health Despite the
the effect were provided (Preferred professions increasing
of flipped before face-to- Reporting education popularity of
classroom face class Items for overall yields a using video-
versus meetings. Systematic statistically recorded
traditional These reviews and significant lectures, we
classroom comparative Meta- improvement in still understand
on student articles focused Analysis) learner little about
learning. on health care guidelines performance how different
professionals [22]. compared with video styles
including Relevant traditional may impact
medical online teaching student
students, databases methods. In learning.
residents, were addition, the Longitudinal
doctors, nurses, searched flipped studies should
or learners in from classroom also be
other health January would be more conducted to
care 2012 effective when examine
professions and through instructors use whether the
disciplines March quizzes at the flipped
(e.g., dental, 2017. start of each in- classroom
pharmacy, January class session. approach can
environmental 2012 Future research foster learning
or occupational onwards can be retention over
health). was chosen conducted to a long period
because examine the of time.
2012 was possible effect
the year of of specific
the first types of
publication teaching
of an method or
application presentation on
of flipped student
classroom learning.
approach to
health
professions
student
teaching
2 Bawa, P. (2016). Retention in Online To reduce online As a survey he most desired This article
Courses: Exploring Issues and Solutions— attrition courses, student and review outcome of reviews
A Literature Review. SAGE and ensure retention of literature such research literature to
Open. https://doi.org/10.1177/21582440156 continual models, social reveals, the should be to ascertain
21777 growth in and causes of help boost critical reasons
online motivational poor retention. At for high
courses, it issues, technolo retention in present, there attrition rates
is gy in online online are many in online
important courses, courses are emerging classes, as well
to continue many, and trends in the as explore
to review although world of e- solutions to
current and there has learning that boost retention
updated been some presents rates. This will
literature headway in different help create a
to the area of avenues for starting point
understand providing future research and foundation
the viable such as Rovai’s for a more, in-
changing solutions to (2003) Compos depth research
behaviors this issue, ite Persistence and analysis of
of online much model retention issues
learners deeper and or Bradford’s in online
and faculty wider (2011) concept courses.
in the 21st studies are of Factor Examining
century required to Correlation these issues is
and develop a Matrix and the critical to
examine better Principal contemporary
how they understandi Components learning
fit together ng of ways Analysis. environments.
as a and means However,
cohesive to solve models and
educationa online concepts such
l unit. course as these need to
issues and be examined in
improve the light of
online more real
classes and world context
course using larger
designs to participant
facilitate groups.
and benefit
both
learners and
educators.
3 Di Xu & Shanna S. this study Individual and Using a Online After
Jaggars (2014) Performance Gaps between examines peer effects, dataset performance controlling for
Online and Face-to-Face Courses: the social sciences, containing gaps were also individual and
Differences across Types of Students and performan applied nearly wider in some peer effects,
Academic Subject Areas, The Journal of ce gap profession 500,000 academic the social
Higher Education, 85:5, 633- between courses subject areas sciences and
659, DOI: 10.1080/00221546.2014.117773 online and taken by than others. the applied
43 face-to- over 40,000 performance professions
face community gaps. (e.g., business,
courses and law, and
and how technical nursing)
the size of college showed the
that gap students in strongest
differs Washington online
across State.
student
subgroups
and
academic
subject
areas.
4 May, Shane Carroll. A Comparative In this The interview In this The findings Considering
Analysis of Student Success and study, data were chapter, the associated with the perceptions
Perceptions of Engagement between Face- interviews, qualitative, and methodolog the first of student
to-Face and Online College Courses surveys, according to y used to research engagement,
Lindenwood University ProQuest and data Creswell and address the question match the participants
Dissertations Publishing, 2019. collection Gutterman research previous indicated
13811251. of grades, (2019) there are questions is research engagement
attendance, six steps in given. This (Nguyen, 2015) was better in a
and analyzing chapter and is further traditional
withdrawal qualitative data: includes the evidence of the face-to-face
rates were (a) preparing following need to move course. The
used to the data for elements: a beyond student rationale given
determine analysis, (b) statement of outcomes to was the belief
the exploring the the problem address other it is easier to
efficacy of data through and impacts of emulate
online coding, (c) purpose, the online immediate
courses using the codes design of education on behaviors, as
compared to develop a the research student defined by
to same picture of the to address success. As Mehrabian
content data, (d) the problem, Nguyen (2015) (1967). The
face-to- presenting the a stated, “There preference for
face findings description is robust face-to-face
courses. through of the evidence to courses was
The goal narratives and population suggest online similar to
was to visuals, (e) and sample, learning is students’
address a interpreting the the validity generally at beliefs
current gap results and, and least as engagement
in the finally, (f) reliability of effective as the was better in
existing validating the instruments, traditional face-to-face
research accuracy of the data format” (p. courses.
(Nguyen, findings. collection 309). The
2015) by methods, results of this
examining and data study support
faculty and analysis the robust
student processes. evidence to
perception Lastly, which Nguyen
s of ethical (2015) referred
engagemen consideratio and highlights
t and ns are the importance
student detailed, of this research
outcomes followed by and
across the chapter examination of
different summary. student
delivery engagement
systems for across the
an entire different
academic delivery
year systems.
5 Bartley, S. J., & Golek, J. H. (2014). This study no significant . Particular A most It would be too
Evaluating the Cost Effectiveness of Online examines difference, attention is intriguing easy altogether
and Face-to-Face Instruction. Educational the online learning, paid to the project that to jump on the
Technology & Society, 7(4), 167–175. evidence hybrid learning, meta- combines the online learning
of the blended analyses on work from both bandwagon or
effectivene learning, higher the prospective to dismiss it as
ss of education, effectivenes paths would be a fad that will
online selection bias s of online the creation of go away (and
learning by learning, the one or two come back as
organizing heterogenou online courses many
and s outcomes that leverage educational
summarizi of student the factors that fads have been
ng the learning and are most known to do).
findings the effective in Overall, there
and endogenous improving is strong
challenges issue of learning evidence to
of online learning outcomes, suggest that
learning environment individualize online learning
into choice. student is at least as
positive, Taken as a learning using effective as the
negative, whole, there adaptive traditional
mixed, and is robust learning format, but the
null evidence to software, and evidence is, by
findings. suggest incorporate no means,
online non-trivial best conclusive.
learning is practices of Online
generally at “gamification.” learning is a
least as Gamification story that is
effective as has been found still being
the to increase written, and
traditional engagement, how it
format. motivation and progresses will
productivity in likely depend
solving on those
problems and present.
task
engagement in
a variety of
non-game
contexts
including
learning
(Deterding et
al., 2011;
Hamari,
Koivisto, Sarsa,
& Hamari,
2014; Kapp,
2012; Landers
& Callen,
2011; Tsai,
Tsai, & Lin,
2015). The
creators of the
course should
consist of
experts on
“gamification”,
online learning
and learning
sciences, and
instructors of
the most highly
rated online
courses. The
goal would be
to create an
online course
that maximizes
student
learning.
MARI PEBA NABALABALIN