essay on traditional education vs online education

Online Classes Vs. Traditional Classes Essay

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Online Vs. In-Person Classes Essay – Introduction

Online and traditional classes differences, works cited.

The article compares and contrasts online classes and traditional classes. Among the advantages of online classes are flexibility and convenience, while in-person classes offer a more structured learning environment. The author highlights that online lessons can be more cost-effective, although they lack support provided by live interactions. Overall, the online vs. traditional classes essay is very relevant today, and the choice depends on the individual student’s needs and preferences.

Modern technology has infiltrated the education sector and as a result, many college students now prefer taking online classes, as opposed to attending the traditional regular classes. This is because online classes are convenient for such students, and more so for those who have to both work and attend classes.

As such, online learning gives them the flexibility that they needed. In addition, online learning also gives an opportunity to students and professionals who would not have otherwise gone back to school to get the necessary qualifications. However, students who have enrolled for online learning do not benefit from the one-on-one interaction with their peers and teachers. The essay shall endeavor to examine the differences between online classes and the traditional classes, with a preference for the later.

Online classes mainly take place through the internet. As such, online classes lack the regular student teacher interaction that is common with traditional learning. On the other hand, learning in traditional classes involves direct interaction between the student and the instructors (Donovan, Mader and Shinsky 286).

This is beneficial to both the leaner and the instructors because both can be bale to establish a bond. In addition, student attending the traditional classroom often have to adhere to strict guidelines that have been established by the learning institution. As such, students have to adhere to the established time schedules. On the other hand, students attending online classes can learn at their own time and pace.

One advantage of the traditional classes over online classes is that students who are not disciplined enough may not be able to sail through successfully because there is nobody to push them around. With traditional classes however, there are rules to put them in check. As such, students attending traditional classes are more likely to be committed to their education (Donovan et al 286).

Another advantage of the traditional classes is all the doubts that students might be having regarding a given course content can be cleared by the instructor on the spot, unlike online learning whereby such explanations might not be as coherent as the student would have wished.

With the traditional classes, students are rarely provided with the course materials by their instructors, and they are therefore expected to take their own notes. This is important because they are likely to preserve such note and use them later on in their studies. In contrast, online students are provided with course materials in the form of video or audio texts (Sorenson and Johnson 116).

They can also download such course materials online. Such learning materials can be deleted or lost easily compared with handwritten class notes, and this is a risk. Although the basic requirements for a student attending online classes are comparatively les in comparison to students attending traditional classes, nonetheless, it is important to note that online students are also expected to be internet savvy because all learning takes place online.

This would be a disadvantage for the regular student; only that internet savvy is not a requirement. Students undertaking online learning are likely to be withdrawn because they hardly interact one-on-one with their fellow online students or even their instructors. The only form of interaction is online. As such, it becomes hard for them to develop a special bond with other students and instructors. With traditional learning however, students have the freedom to interact freely and this helps to strengthen their existing bond.

Online learning is convenient and has less basic requirements compared with traditional learning. It also allows learners who would have ordinarily not gone back to school to access an education. However, online students do not benefit from a close interaction with their peers and instructors as do their regular counterparts. Also, regular students can engage their instructors more easily and relatively faster in case they want to have certain sections of the course explained, unlike online students.

Donovan, Judy, Mader, Cynthia and Shinsky, John. Constructive student feedback: Online vs. traditional course evaluations. Journal of Interactive Online Learning , 5.3(2006): 284-292.

Sorenson, Lynn, and Johnson, Trav. Online Student Ratings of Instructions . San Francisco: Jossey Bass, 2003. Print.

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > Higher Education News > Online vs Traditional School: A Thorough Analysis

Higher Education News , Tips for Online Students

Online vs Traditional School: A Thorough Analysis

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: January 23, 2017

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In the United States alone, data from the National Center for Education Statistics reported that 43% of students were enrolled in remote instruction (online school) in early 2021. The rise of online education can be witnessed around the world as technology continues to advance. The increased attendance and desire for online colleges during COVID were also to be expected.  In this article, we will assess the differences between online school vs. traditional school.

By the end of the article, you will be able to answer, “is online college better?” than traditional colleges.

What is Online School and Is it Respected?

Online school is instruction and education that takes place digitally via the Internet. Online degrees vs traditional degrees are those earned online rather than in-person and on campus.

Online school may also be called distance learning, virtual schooling, or e-learning.

The big question when considering attending an online school that often arises is whether or not your future employer (or future educational institution) will respect or accept your online degree .

Since online school is becoming more popular, the social sentiments around online schooling are too. In fact, 83% of surveyed business leaders expressed that an online degree from a “well-known” institute holds the same value as one earned on campus.

One of the main things to look for when attending an online school is its accreditation status. Accreditation is the process of having an independent third-party evaluate an institution to ensure its credibility. The third-party will confirm whether or not the institution is equipped to deliver its promises and mission. For some graduate programs, they will only accept an undergraduate degree from an accredited program. This is another reason why it’s so important to check for accreditation when enrolling at an online school.

Advantages of Online School

When you consider the various benefits of online school, it’s clear to see why the option is becoming so popular. Here’s a look at some of the advantages:

Affordability

Since online schools don’t necessarily have to operate a campus and cover those exorbitant costs, they tend to be more cost-effective and affordable than their traditional counterparts. In fact, you can even find online colleges that are tuition-free. For example, the University of the People is just that – a 100% online and tuition-free institution. There are some fees associated with attendance, but they add up to much less than that of the tuition at other schools.

Flexibility

Online school also tends to be more flexible in terms of scheduling than a traditional college. The reason is when it comes to earning an online degree vs on-campus, you can do so at your own pace. If classes are pre-recorded, then it’s up to the student to decide when to learn. In a traditional college setting, there’s a set schedule as to when the professor teaches a specific subject. There’s also a cap on how many students can attend each lecture. This means that some students may end up having to wait another semester or quarter (or in the worst case a whole year) to get into a class they might need to graduate.

Location independent

Geographic barriers can hinder one’s ability to attend a certain institution. Whether that is because of cost, visas, or responsibilities at home, or an existing job, learning online removes the element of the location as a concern. With online college, you can learn virtually from anywhere you choose.

Fewer distractions

Depending on how you set up your learning environment to attend the online school, it can be designed to be less distracting than that of an on-campus setting. Peers may distract you in class. Students who get up or chat during tests or lectures can hinder their ability to learn. With an online school, your environment ends up being more within your control.

Online schools also offer the option to learn at your own pace. You can enroll part-time or full-time, log on morning or night, and choose to work through coursework quickly or slowly.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”48358″ img_size=”full” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” css_animation=”flipInX” link=”https://go.uopeople.edu/admission-application.html” el_id=”cta-blog-picture”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Disadvantages of Online School

With so many benefits of online school, you may wonder, “What’s the downside?” Well, that really depends on you!

Requires self-motivation

With online school being self-paced and offering so much flexibility, it’s up to you to remain self-motivated and engaged. You won’t be surrounded by students or expected to show up to a lecture. Instead, it’s up to you to log on, maintain a schedule , and stay focused.

Technical considerations

With online school, there’s a requirement for sound technology to support your learning endeavors. The good news is that schools like the University of the People require nothing more than a strong internet connection and a compatible device. Once you have your tech stack sorted, you can log on and learn from anywhere in the world!

Advantages of Traditional School

Now that we’ve touched on the good and the bad of online school, it’s only fair to consider the advantages of traditional school.

Take a look:

Social experience

For some, the social experience of college or learning alongside peers is something that cannot be replaced. Students have a chance to develop in-person social skills while attending school.

Public speaking skills

In school, you may be tasked with assignments and projects that require you to get up in front of large amounts of students to present. These kinds of activities will help you build public speaking skills. While it is possible you’d do this in an online school via video, the atmosphere feels different when you can sense the energy of your audience in person.

Hands-on lab sessions

There are some subjects that are completely different in person. For example, think about the need for hands-on labs when it comes to learning hard sciences.

Disadvantages of Traditional School

It’s pretty safe to say that when comparing online school vs traditional school, online school’s advantages tend to be traditional school’s disadvantages. You can bank on paying a higher cost to attend a traditional school and you won’t have flexible scheduling. Additionally, you may have to deal with:

Commute time

If you have classes on campus, you’ll have to find your way to campus, which adds commute time to your schedule.

Loss of individualization

It may be the case that you find yourself in a lecture hall with 300 students and the professor will never know your name. Traditional education tends to operate under a one-size-fits-all model. On the other hand, online school is more malleable and you can access online learning materials that are better suited to your learning style.

Online Learning at the University of the People

After reading this, you may be more interested in attending online school than ever before. It makes sense why you’d feel that way!

University of the People, a tuition-free university , offers a variety of degree-granting and certificate programs. For example, you can earn your degree (at various levels such as associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s)  in Health Science, Education, Computer Science, or Business Administration.  Take a look.  And, we also are accredited .

Closing Thoughts

Comparing the pros and cons of online school vs traditional school will look different for everyone. It’s a personal choice as to what you think will work better for you, your career and educational goals, and your own personal situation. While we promised to answer is online school better than traditional, the only answer can come from you and how you feel about it.

We hope we’ve helped you to better understand the differences and benefits of each style of instruction!

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Nathaly Ordonez

Business Administration Student, US

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Online Education Vs. Traditional Education

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Online education and traditional education. When it comes to higher education, these types of learning are vastly different, but both can lead you to the ultimate goal of a diploma and an exciting path to a career. It’s important to carefully consider which will be the best fit for you before you embark on the path. This guide will help you compare and contrast online education vs. traditional education so you can make an educated decision about which one is best for your learning needs.

Online education and traditional education stats.

As technology continues to advance, more students are opting for online education instead of brick-and-mortar colleges. According to the National Center for Education Statistics , in 2016 43% of undergraduate students participated in some form of online education as part of their college learning. That’s up 11% from the year before. More students are opting for online learning; while traditional colleges saw a slight decline in enrollment from 2014 to 2016, online colleges saw increases in enrollment. 

Currently over 6 million Americans are pursuing an online education. And 68% of them are experienced professionals, going back to get a degree while they work. The average online student is 32 years old, much older than the average traditional student. Graduate students are also two times more likely to earn their degree online. 

Comparing online vs. traditional education.

While you consider what kind of college or university you want to attend, it’s important to consider online education facts and online education tools, compared to the facts about traditional education and the tools it can offer. Carefully consider all the elements involved with schooling to determine which kind of education will be the best fit for you.

Flexibility.

You need to evaluate how much flexibility you have in your life. If you have few responsibilities or demands on your time, traditional schooling with scheduled class times may be the right fit for you. However if you work full-time or part-time, have family responsibilities, need to care for your home and children, or simply don’t want to pin down your schedule even more, online schooling could be a great option for you. Online education at WGU means that you don’t have to attend class at a certain time. You have all the assignments and learning at your fingertips, and it’s completely up to you when you do your coursework. For some students, they are able to do their classes during the day while their children are at school. For others, the evenings and weekends after working their full-time job are the best times for school. Online education can mean increased flexibility, allowing you to proceed with your coursework in the ways that work best for you. 

Social interaction.

Carefully consider your need for social interaction as part of your educational experience. If a big part of your drive for higher education is to make new friends, spend time with people, and chat face-to-face, online education may not be the best fit for you. However, online education does not mean that you don’t have social interaction. Online education still has connections with other students and faculty members, it’s just online instead of in-person. At WGU for example, you work with a program mentor over the phone and online during your entire college experience. You also have access to connect with faculty members for your specific courses, as well as communicate with your cohort of students online . We also have networking opportunities for you to connect with WGU alumni working in a variety of fields; they can help you make connections and land jobs after graduation. Being online doesn’t mean that you have to do it alone.

Discipline.

With traditional schooling, there are often attendance policies and deadlines for assignments, so self-discipline isn’t as important. With online schooling however, there is much more freedom and self-motivation needed to succeed. Online students at WGU don’t have specific deadlines for assignments. There’s not a specific time you have to work on your courses. You must have the self-motivation and drive to want to work on them and integrate your school work into your schedule. If you feel like you’re a driven, disciplined person, you’ll likely excel in an online environment. 

Another huge factor in determining online or traditional schooling is your location. Do you live in a rural area with no colleges nearby? How much time would commuting to school add to your day? Do you have that much time to give? Is the program you want to pursue offered at a school near you? Is the school close to you reputable, accredited, and trustworthy? For many students, their location doesn’t allow them to pursue a traditional education. But online education is breaking down barriers for these individuals. Online education allows them to attend an accredited, respected institution and get the degree they need to further their career. WGU has no physical campus; students all around the United States can earn a WGU degree. While some programs are restricted due to the need for clinical work, most WGU programs can be done absolutely anywhere. Your location doesn’t have to be a factor in your ability to get an education.

As you consider a traditional or online education, these factors can help you make the decision and do what’s going to be best for you. More and more, students are finding that an online education is a great fit for their specific needs and wants. And as technology continues to advance, online education will continue to grow too. 

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Online vs. Traditional Education: What You Need to Know

By Will Erstad on 08/16/2017

The word “college” might make you think of students hanging out in dorm rooms or gathering for classes in enormous lecture halls. But that depiction is becoming increasingly out-of-date as technology provides for more and more ways to learn.

In fact, online and distance learning has steadily grown in popularity among college students, but does that mean it’s a good choice for you? In order to help you answer that question, take some time to compare and contrast traditional versus online education.

Comparing online versus traditional education

Both online education and its traditional counterpart have pros and cons, so it’s important for students to understand what to expect before they step foot—or log into—the classroom. We focused this side-by-side comparison on three key areas that make an impact on a student’s experience. We’ll also take a closer look at what a “blended learning” model has to offer.

Online vs. traditional education: Flexibility

One of the key components to consider when weighing the options is the amount of time you have every day to dedicate to schoolwork. Are you willing and able to attend college full-time or do you need more flexibility to work around your busy schedule?

Online education:

A benefit to taking online courses is that they offer flexibility to the student. This is a great option for those who already have time commitments with family and work. Online classes will mold with your schedule—and allow you to log into your online course at a time that works best for you, as opposed to having to attend a lecture at a specific time.

Most online courses will follow a weekly format where students are expected to log in, read course materials, contribute to online class discussions and complete assignments prior to the beginning of the next week. You’ll still have plenty to do for each class—but you’ll have more options for fitting this work in around other commitments.

Traditional education:

Generally speaking, this is the best option for students who have a little more freedom in their schedules. That said, traditional students do have some flexibility in their scheduling in that some schools offer night classes or classes that follow a schedule where they meet only once per week.

One easy-to-overlook factor when it comes to scheduling is travel time to campus—a long commute can certainly make schedules difficult, especially if you’re planning on working while in school .

Online vs. traditional education: Discipline & self-motivation

Something else to consider while weighing your college options is your level of self-discipline. Both traditional and online education certainly require some discipline to succeed, but there can be significant differences in how learning is structured. These structural differences can have a significant effect on your ability to stay on track.

The increased flexibility of online learning comes with a bit of a trade-off—you’ll need to be highly self-motivated. All college classes require students to keep up on required reading and assignments, but some students may struggle to stay motivated when learning from the comfort of their home.

The best online students develop strategies for staying up to date on their coursework. Things like setting aside time every week for studying and creating a work space with minimal distractions can help immensely.

When it comes to discipline and motivation, traditional education does have an advantage in the eyes of many. The structured schedule of attending class a handful of times per week and having routine face-to-face interactions with instructors can help keep students on task. Students in traditional, on-campus settings have more opportunities to be reminded of upcoming assignments, which can help if you tend to procrastinate on large, time-consuming assignments.

Online vs. traditional education: Social interaction

One final area to consider is the level of social interaction you’re hoping to have as you earn your degree. Do you need interaction from your peers and instructors to succeed and stay motivated? Or do you thrive in an independent study environment?

Social interaction with instructors and other students, while not as common in online courses, still happens regularly. The biggest difference is in the form it takes, with many online student interactions happening via video chat or through online discussion posts.

Some courses may also offer pre-recorded videos of the same lectures given to traditional, on-campus students. If you’re a social learner who likes to ask questions and pick the brains of your instructors, these video lectures can help you earn a deeper understanding of assigned reading materials.

Despite technological advances, traditional education is still likely the better option for those who thrive on face-to-face communication. Seeing and interacting with your instructors on a regular basis can be motivating for some—it’s a little easier to go the extra mile if you know your instructor is likeable and invested in your education. Traditional, in-class settings may also offer more opportunities for spur-of-the-moment questioning or interesting tangents that may help a concept “click” in the minds of students.

Online vs. traditional education: The blended education model

By now, it’s probably becoming clear to you that both online and traditional education each have their perks. So is there a way to get the best of both worlds? One option that is increasing in popularity is called “blended learning.”

In this format, curriculum is designed to implement both traditional, in-person learning and online coursework. The implementation of this can vary greatly, depending on the subject and instructor. But as an example, instructors may require only meeting once weekly for lectures, while assigning projects or other activities for students to complete online on their own time. This allows students to receive some of the positives from face-to-face social learning while still allowing for scheduling flexibility.

Another example would be a program that offers some courses on campus and others online. For example, a nursing program may include an online anatomy course, and a nursing simulation lab on campus. The idea here is that certain courses involve material that is conducive to online learning, while other lessons can only be taught in a physical classroom or lab.

The decision is yours

In the case of online versus traditional education, there is no right or wrong answer. Much of it comes down to personal preference and knowing how you learn best. These learning formats can all be very effective, no matter your personal learning style and situation.

Ready to get started with a new college experience? Find a campus location near you or check out the online program offerings of Rasmussen University.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article was originally published February 2014 and has been updated to reflect information from 2017.

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About the author

Will Erstad

Will is a Sr. Content Specialist at Collegis Education. He researches and writes student-focused articles on a variety of topics for Rasmussen University. He is passionate about learning and enjoys writing engaging content to help current and future students on their path to a rewarding education.

Posted in Online Learning

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A Comparison of Student Learning Outcomes: Online Education vs. Traditional Classroom Instruction

Despite the prevalence of online learning today, it is often viewed as a less favorable option when compared to the traditional, in-person educational experience. Criticisms of online learning come from various sectors, like employer groups, college faculty, and the general public, and generally includes a lack of perceived quality as well as rigor. Additionally, some students report feelings of social isolation in online learning (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019).

In my experience as an online student as well as an online educator, online learning has been just the opposite. I have been teaching in a fully online master’s degree program for the last three years and have found it to be a rich and rewarding experience for students and faculty alike. As an instructor, I have felt more connected to and engaged with my online students when compared to in-person students. I have also found that students are actively engaged with course content and demonstrate evidence of higher-order thinking through their work. Students report high levels of satisfaction with their experiences in online learning as well as the program overall as indicated in their Student Evaluations of Teaching  (SET) at the end of every course. I believe that intelligent course design, in addition to my engagement in professional development related to teaching and learning online, has greatly influenced my experience.

In an article by Wiley Education Services, authors identified the top six challenges facing US institutions of higher education, and include:

• Declining student enrollment
• Financial difficulties
• Fewer high school graduates
• Decreased state funding
• Lower world rankings
• Declining international student enrollments

Of the strategies that institutions are exploring to remedy these issues, online learning is reported to be a key focus for many universities (“Top Challenges Facing US Higher Education”, n.d.).

Babson Survey Research Group, 2016, [PDF file].

Some of the questions I would like to explore in further research include:

• What factors influence engagement and connection in distance education?
• Are the learning outcomes in online education any different than the outcomes achieved in a traditional classroom setting?
• How do course design and instructor training influence these factors?
• In what ways might educational technology tools enhance the overall experience for students and instructors alike?

In this literature review, I have chosen to focus on a comparison of student learning outcomes in online education versus the traditional classroom setting. My hope is that this research will unlock the answers to some of the additional questions posed above and provide additional direction for future research.

Online Learning Defined

According to Mayadas, Miller, and Sener (2015), online courses are defined by all course activity taking place online with no required in-person sessions or on-campus activity. It is important to note, however, that the Babson Survey Research Group, a prominent organization known for their surveys and research in online learning, defines online learning as a course in which 80-100% occurs online. While this distinction was made in an effort to provide consistency in surveys year over year, most institutions continue to define online learning as learning that occurs 100% online.

Blended or hybrid learning is defined by courses that mix face to face meetings, sessions, or activities with online work. The ratio of online to classroom activity is often determined by the label in which the course is given. For example, a blended classroom course would likely include more time spent in the classroom, with the remaining work occurring outside of the classroom with the assistance of technology. On the other hand, a blended online course would contain a greater percentage of work done online, with some required in-person sessions or meetings (Mayadas, Miller, & Sener, 2015).

A classroom course (also referred to as a traditional course) refers to course activity that is anchored to a regular meeting time.

Enrollment Trends in Online Education

There has been an upward trend in the number of postsecondary students enrolled in online courses in the U.S. since 2002. A report by the Babson Survey Research Group showed that in 2016, more than six million students were enrolled in at least one online course. This number accounted for 31.6% of all college students (Seaman, Allen, & Seaman, 2018). Approximately one in three students are enrolled in online courses with no in-person component. Of these students, 47% take classes in a fully online program. The remaining 53% take some, but not all courses online (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019).

(Seaman et al., 2016, p. 11)

Perceptions of Online Education

In a 2016 report by the Babson Survey Research Group, surveys of faculty between 2002-2015 showed approval ratings regarding the value and legitimacy of online education ranged from 28-34 percent. While numbers have increased and decreased over the thirteen-year time frame, faculty approval was at 29 percent in 2015, just 1 percent higher than the approval ratings noted in 2002 – indicating that perceptions have remained relatively unchanged over the years (Allen, Seaman, Poulin, & Straut, 2016).

(Allen, I.E., Seaman, J., Poulin, R., Taylor Strout, T., 2016, p. 26)

In a separate survey of chief academic officers, perceptions of online learning appeared to align with that of faculty. In this survey, leaders were asked to rate their perceived quality of learning outcomes in online learning when compared to traditional in-person settings. While the percentage of leaders rating online learning as “inferior” or “somewhat inferior” to traditional face-to-face courses dropped from 43 percent to 23 percent between 2003 to 2012, the number rose again to 29 percent in 2015 (Allen, Seaman, Poulin, & Straut, 2016).

Faculty and academic leaders in higher education are not alone when it comes to perceptions of inferiority when compared to traditional classroom instruction. A 2013 Gallop poll assessing public perceptions showed that respondents rated online education as “worse” in five of the seven categories seen in the table below.

(Saad, L., Busteed, B., and Ogisi, M., 2013, October 15)

In general, Americans believed that online education provides both lower quality and less individualized instruction and less rigorous testing and grading when compared to the traditional classroom setting. In addition, respondents also thought that employers would perceive a degree from an online program less positively when compared to a degree obtained through traditional classroom instruction (Saad, Busteed, & Ogisi, 2013).

Student Perceptions of Online Learning

So what do students have to say about online learning? In  Online College Students 2015: Comprehensive Data on Demands and Preferences,  1500 college students who were either enrolled or planning to enroll in a fully online undergraduate, graduate, or certificate program were surveyed. 78 percent of students believed the academic quality of their online learning experience to be better than or equal to their experiences with traditional classroom learning. Furthermore, 30 percent of online students polled said that they would likely not attend classes face to face if their program were not available online (Clienfelter & Aslanian, 2015). The following video describes some of the common reasons why students choose to attend college online.

How Online Learning Affects the Lives of Students ( Pearson North America, 2018, June 25)

In a 2015 study comparing student perceptions of online learning with face to face learning, researchers found that the majority of students surveyed expressed a preference for traditional face to face classes. A content analysis of the findings, however, brought attention to two key ideas: 1) student opinions of online learning may be based on “old typology of distance education” (Tichavsky, et al, 2015, p.6) as opposed to actual experience, and 2) a student’s inclination to choose one form over another is connected to issues of teaching presence and self-regulated learning (Tichavsky et al, 2015).

Student Learning Outcomes

Given the upward trend in student enrollment in online courses in postsecondary schools and the steady ratings of the low perceived value of online learning by stakeholder groups, it should be no surprise that there is a large body of literature comparing student learning outcomes in online classes to the traditional classroom environment.

While a majority of the studies reviewed found no significant difference in learning outcomes when comparing online to traditional courses (Cavanaugh & Jacquemin, 2015; Kemp & Grieve, 2014; Lyke & Frank 2012; Nichols, Shaffer, & Shockey, 2003; Stack, 2015; Summers, Waigandt, & Whittaker, 2005), there were a few outliers. In a 2019 report by Protopsaltis & Baum, authors confirmed that while learning is often found to be similar between the two mediums, students “with weak academic preparation and those from low-income and underrepresented backgrounds consistently underperform in fully-online environments” (Protopsaltis & Baum, 2019, n.p.). An important consideration, however, is that these findings are primarily based on students enrolled in online courses at the community college level – a demographic with a historically high rate of attrition compared to students attending four-year institutions (Ashby, Sadera, & McNary, 2011). Furthermore, students enrolled in online courses have been shown to have a 10 – 20 percent increase in attrition over their peers who are enrolled in traditional classroom instruction (Angelino, Williams, & Natvig, 2007). Therefore, attrition may be a key contributor to the lack of achievement seen in this subgroup of students enrolled in online education.

In contrast, there were a small number of studies that showed that online students tend to outperform those enrolled in traditional classroom instruction. One study, in particular, found a significant difference in test scores for students enrolled in an online, undergraduate business course. The confounding variable, in this case, was age. Researchers found a significant difference in performance in nontraditional age students over their traditional age counterparts. Authors concluded that older students may elect to take online classes for practical reasons related to outside work schedules, and this may, in turn, contribute to the learning that occurs overall (Slover & Mandernach, 2018).

In a meta-analysis and review of online learning spanning the years 1996 to 2008, authors from the US Department of Education found that students who took all or part of their classes online showed better learning outcomes than those students who took the same courses face-to-face. In these cases, it is important to note that there were many differences noted in the online and face-to-face versions, including the amount of time students spent engaged with course content. The authors concluded that the differences in learning outcomes may be attributed to learning design as opposed to the specific mode of delivery (Means, Toyoma, Murphy, Bakia, Jones, 2009).

Limitations and Opportunities

After examining the research comparing student learning outcomes in online education with the traditional classroom setting, there are many limitations that came to light, creating areas of opportunity for additional research. In many of the studies referenced, it is difficult to determine the pedagogical practices used in course design and delivery. Research shows the importance of student-student and student-teacher interaction in online learning, and the positive impact of these variables on student learning (Bernard, Borokhovski, Schmid, Tamim, & Abrami, 2014). Some researchers note that while many studies comparing online and traditional classroom learning exist, the methodologies and design issues make it challenging to explain the results conclusively (Mollenkopf, Vu, Crow, & Black, 2017). For example, some online courses may be structured in a variety of ways, i.e. self-paced, instructor-led and may be classified as synchronous or asynchronous (Moore, Dickson-Deane, Galyan, 2011)

Another gap in the literature is the failure to use a common language across studies to define the learning environment. This issue is explored extensively in a 2011 study by Moore, Dickson-Deane, and Galyan. Here, the authors examine the differences between e-learning, online learning, and distance learning in the literature, and how the terminology is often used interchangeably despite the variances in characteristics that define each. The authors also discuss the variability in the terms “course” versus “program”. This variability in the literature presents a challenge when attempting to compare one study of online learning to another (Moore, Dickson-Deane, & Galyan, 2011).

Finally, much of the literature in higher education focuses on undergraduate-level classes within the United States. Little research is available on outcomes in graduate-level classes as well as general information on student learning outcomes and perceptions of online learning outside of the U.S.

As we look to the future, there are additional questions to explore in the area of online learning. Overall, this research led to questions related to learning design when comparing the two modalities in higher education. Further research is needed to investigate the instructional strategies used to enhance student learning, especially in students with weaker academic preparation or from underrepresented backgrounds. Given the integral role that online learning is expected to play in the future of higher education in the United States, it may be even more critical to move beyond comparisons of online versus face to face. Instead, choosing to focus on sound pedagogical quality with consideration for the mode of delivery as a means for promoting positive learning outcomes.

Allen, I.E., Seaman, J., Poulin, R., & Straut, T. (2016). Online Report Card: Tracking Online Education in the United States [PDF file]. Babson Survey Research Group.   http://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/onlinereportcard.pdf

Angelino, L. M., Williams, F. K., & Natvig, D. (2007). Strategies to engage online students and reduce attrition rates.  The Journal of Educators Online , 4(2).

Ashby, J., Sadera, W.A., & McNary, S.W. (2011). Comparing student success between developmental math courses offered online, blended, and face-to-face.  Journal of Interactive Online Learning , 10(3), 128-140.

Bernard, R.M., Borokhovski, E., Schmid, R.F., Tamim, R.M., & Abrami, P.C. (2014). A meta-analysis of blended learning and technology use in higher education: From the general to the applied.  Journal of Computing in Higher Education , 26(1), 87-122.

Cavanaugh, J.K. & Jacquemin, S.J. (2015). A large sample comparison of grade based student learning outcomes in online vs. face-fo-face courses.  Journal of Asynchronous Learning Network,  19(2).

Clinefelter, D. L., & Aslanian, C. B. (2015). Online college students 2015: Comprehensive data on demands and preferences.   https://www.learninghouse.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/OnlineCollegeStudents2015.pdf

Golubovskaya, E.A., Tikhonova, E.V., & Mekeko, N.M. (2019). Measuring learning outcome and students’ satisfaction in ELT (e-learning against conventional learning). Paper presented the ACM International Conference Proceeding Series, 34-38. Doi: 10.1145/3337682.3337704

Kemp, N. & Grieve, R. (2014). Face-to-face or face-to-screen? Undergraduates’ opinions and test performance in classroom vs. online learning.  Frontiers in Psychology , 5. Doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2014.01278

Lyke, J., & Frank, M. (2012). Comparison of student learning outcomes in online and traditional classroom environments in a psychology course. (Cover story).  Journal of Instructional Psychology , 39(3/4), 245-250.

Mayadas, F., Miller, G. & Senner, J.  Definitions of E-Learning Courses and Programs Version 2.0.  Online Learning Consortium.  https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/updated-e-learning-definitions-2/

Means, B., Toyama, Y., Murphy, R., Bakia, M., & Jones, K. (2010). Evaluation of evidence-based practices in online learning: A meta-analysis and review of online learning studies. US Department of Education.  https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf

Mollenkopf, D., Vu, P., Crow, S, & Black, C. (2017). Does online learning deliver? A comparison of student teacher outcomes from candidates in face to face and online program pathways.  Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration.  20(1).

Moore, J.L., Dickson-Deane, C., & Galyan, K. (2011). E-Learning, online learning, and distance learning environments: Are they the same?  The Internet and Higher Education . 14(2), 129-135.

Nichols, J., Shaffer, B., & Shockey, K. (2003). Changing the face of instruction: Is online or in-class more effective?   College & Research Libraries , 64(5), 378–388.  https://doi-org.proxy2.library.illinois.edu/10.5860/crl.64.5.378

Parsons-Pollard, N., Lacks, T.R., & Grant, P.H. (2008). A comparative assessment of student learning outcomes in large online and traditional campus based introduction to criminal justice courses.  Criminal Justice Studies , 2, 225-239.

Pearson North America. (2018, June 25).  How Online Learning Affects the Lives of Students . YouTube.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPDMagf_oAE

Protopsaltis, S., & Baum, S. (2019). Does online education live up to its promise? A look at the evidence and implications for federal policy [PDF file].   http://mason.gmu.edu/~sprotops/OnlineEd.pdf

Saad, L., Busteed, B., & Ogisi, M. (October 15, 2013). In U.S., Online Education Rated Best for Value and Options.  https://news.gallup.com/poll/165425/online-education-rated-best-value-options.aspx

Stack, S. (2015). Learning Outcomes in an Online vs Traditional Course.  International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning , 9(1).

Seaman, J.E., Allen, I.E., & Seaman, J. (2018). Grade Increase: Tracking Distance Education in the United States [PDF file]. Babson Survey Research Group.  http://onlinelearningsurvey.com/reports/gradeincrease.pdf

Slover, E. & Mandernach, J. (2018). Beyond Online versus Face-to-Face Comparisons: The Interaction of Student Age and Mode of Instruction on Academic Achievement.  Journal of Educators Online,  15(1) .  https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1168945.pdf

Summers, J., Waigandt, A., & Whittaker, T. (2005). A Comparison of Student Achievement and Satisfaction in an Online Versus a Traditional Face-to-Face Statistics Class.  Innovative Higher Education , 29(3), 233–250.  https://doi-org.proxy2.library.illinois.edu/10.1007/s10755-005-1938-x

Tichavsky, L.P., Hunt, A., Driscoll, A., & Jicha, K. (2015). “It’s just nice having a real teacher”: Student perceptions of online versus face-to-face instruction.  International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.  9(2).

Wiley Education Services. (n.d.).  Top challenges facing U.S. higher education.  https://edservices.wiley.com/top-higher-education-challenges/

July 17, 2020

Online Learning

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Online education vs traditional education – which one is better and why

Find out what the critical advantages and disadvantages of online learning vs a traditional education environment are, and why this matters!

As teachers and schools move to online education and away from a strict traditional education environment, what are the key differences between these two approaches to teaching and learning.

What is online education?

What is traditional education, discipline and self-motivation, flexibility, social interaction, online teaching vs classroom teaching, what is the advantage of online education, what are the disadvantages of online education, what are the advantages of traditional education, what are the disadvantages of traditional education.

Online learning takes place over the internet and is a form of distance learning. It can be teacher lead at a specific time (synchronous) or student-paced working through the material unguided (asynchronous). Content can be delivered as text, images and video, and features could include online assessment or interactive activities.

Traditional education occurs in a classroom with a teacher who plans and presents a particular topic lesson. The teacher can use various educational tools such as introducing information on a chalk or whiteboard, student presentations, group or partner work, and individual exercises or activities. Class quizzes or informal assessments can be held and homework assignments set.

What is the difference between online learning and a traditional classroom setup?

There are several critical differences between online and traditional classes. These are vital factors students consider when they choose one or the other.

A traditional classroom set-up provides a structured timetable for classes. You need to attend a class at a specific time or miss the lesson and the teacher’s information (there may also be other repercussions!). Motivation to learn comes from the teacher, whose task is to present information to the students in an engaging manner and fellow students who may discuss course content together before or after class. In an online education environment, the student sets the pace of learning. They need to be disciplined enough to set aside time each day to focus on completing course content.

In some cases, they must complete all components in an online course by a specific date. In other cases, this is open-ended. While there may be online discussion forums for students taking an online course, or the ability to video conference or instant message with other students, the student must motivate themselves to continue and complete their studies online.

A traditional class takes place at a specific location and a set time. Students are given a timetable of their classes for the week, and the teacher will expect them to attend the course at the specified time. If they miss it, the students will have missed the teacher’s lesson. There may be an opportunity to catch up on some work, but this catch-up work will, in most cases, not be of the same standard as the lesson presented. In some situations, if the student misses too many set classes, they might not be allowed to write the final exam. This time dependency makes the traditional education approach difficult for some students with outside commitments, such as family or work. In these cases, the online education approach provides much-needed flexibility. Students can log into a course at any time of the day or night and complete the course content at their own pace. They will receive the same lesson content as other students completing the course and not be penalized if they don’t log in simultaneously. Communication in these courses can be asynchronous via, for example, an online forum, where students can leave messages and reply to other students at any point. Students can fit in their learning as and when they have the time for courses without a set completion date. Most online courses have set completion requirements such as reading or viewing all material and completing an online assessment and not set times spent online. This means the flexibility offered by online learning is ideal for students who have full-time jobs or might need to care for a family member.

If you live in a small town in a developing country, you may not have access to a wide array of educational options. Similarly, if you are interested in studying a specialized subject or with a particular teacher, you might need to move to a city or town the school is located. Online learning solves this problem. Someone in a village in India and a suburb of London can access the same content online (assuming access to devices and the internet). This decouples location from the learning experience.

One of the main benefits of a traditional classroom environment is the interaction with the teacher and fellow students. Informal discussions, as well as group work and classroom interactions, can be called social learning . In an online learning environment , teachers can replicate these interactions through forums or breakaway rooms for group work; however, the informal interactions in the classroom , corridor or break room are difficult to recreate online. Some students also report feeling isolated when taking online classes as it is sometimes tricky studying via a screen and browser at home or work.

Studies have shown that both online and classroom teaching is effective. In some scenarios, online learning may even be more effective. This depends on factors such as the student, technology infrastructure and subject taken . One of the critical factors in a successful online learning experience is student engagement. In a traditional classroom, the teacher constantly monitors student engagement, asks certain students for feedback on a topic or if they have any questions.

Student engagement is key to successful online learning. Original project work that centres on compelling content, community and peer engagement, instructor presence, synchronous meeting capabilities, advanced video production, and social learning opportunities bridges new concepts to real-world applications.

• Choice – when you decide to enrol in an online course, the topics available for study are substantially more than in a traditional education environment. This means you can study subjects that are not available to students in your city or town, or specialist subjects only available from certain institutions.
• Costs – online education usually comes at a more affordable price than face to face or traditional education. This lower cost is because there are fewer physical infrastructure costs, and you don’t need to employ a teacher full time to conduct the class. However, more and more online courses are being offered at a cost equivalent to the price of a traditional college or school education.
• Flexibility – as mentioned above, flexibility is one of the main differences between a traditional and online education. It is also one of the main benefits for students who, for example, need to work or are not able to attend courses at a fixed time or location. This flexibility also allows students to choose subjects they are interested in but do not necessarily want to pursue as a career.
• Guest classes or lectures by experts – while it is possible to invite a professional or business leader to conduct a lesson in a classroom, this requires scheduling the course at a time available to the guest lecturer. It is much easier to ask them to run a lecture via Zoom or Google Meet , where they can take time out of their day but remain at their office or place of work. This also allows lecturers from across the country or the world to share their expertise with the class.
• Lesson recordings and notes – online courses come with the ability to record online lectures and make them available for repeated viewing by the student. Likewise, class notes and readings can be made available to the student digitally for repeated reference and adaptation and enhancement as required by the student to facilitate their learning. Lastly, digital resources can be quickly and easily updated with new or more relevant content as needed, meaning the student can access the latest information in their subject.
• Participation – participation rates can be higher in an online class, particularly when there are rules for online learning that require a certain number of interactions via different channels per student.
• Quality teachers-student interaction – if the instructor or teacher is comfortable using digital communication tools, the student could have more access to the teacher to ask questions or engage in discussion. This communication can be through email, instant messaging such as WhatsApp , or online forums and discussion groups.
• Cheating – some students cheat at assessments in both online and traditional classes. However, it is difficult for the teacher to monitor an online evaluation where students may have a browser open searching for answers or instant messaging other students to assist.
• Communication skills – listening to fellow students in class, discussing topics, defending arguments, and listening to others’ opinions develop interpersonal communication skills. This is one of the benefits of a traditional classroom setting, and these skills are difficult to develop in an online course, particularly when asynchronous.
• Procrastination – putting something off until the last minute is a classic trope of the student. However, in an online class that may not have set deadlines for submitting assignments or a completion date, it is much easier to procrastinate.
• Self-motivation – online students need to make the time and effort to complete their course requirements. With no set schedule and, in some cases, no teacher, self-motivation and time management skills are critical to a successful outcome for online learning.
• Social isolation – some students, particularly those who are not employed or involved in other activities, may experience some form of social isolation when participating in an online course. Even though there are chances to interact with the other students online, the informal conversations and discussions between students in a traditional classroom setting are difficult to replicate.
• Time commitment – when an online course is not instructor or teacher-led, there is sometimes substantially more reading or reference material to watch. This means that the student’s time commitment is more significant than a student taking a similar class in a traditional classroom setting.
• Confidence – in a classroom setting, where a group of students work together with a teacher on a problem, a sense of academic confidence is built in students around their ability to approach new topics.
• Group work – an essential part of the traditional classroom experience is the interaction between students and working together on group projects. These projects can be completed in an online environment but don’t allow for the same level of social interaction and informal learning in a classroom setting.
• Interpersonal skills – by sitting in a class with fellow students and learning to interact with a teacher, critical interpersonal skills are cultivated. These skills are helpful in other situations in students personal and professional lives.
• Pressure – a traditional classroom has a set schedule, with deadlines and set times to complete work. Students need to learn to work in high-pressured environments, which is a skill that is transferable to other areas of their lives.
• Public speaking – having to ask questions in an entire class or debate your point of view in front of a teacher builds confidence in a student’s public speaking ability. These skills are difficult to make in an online class, even one where Zoom presentations are required.
• Costs – there are higher costs incurred with a traditional classroom-based course. These include fees, which can be substantial, particularly at the college level, travel costs to and from the school or campus, and lost income for students working and needed to stop to complete their studies.
• Interactions – depending on the lecturer or teacher’s class size and personality, students could have limited direct interaction with them. For students who need remedial support or would like extension activities, this could be a problem.
• Lack of flexibility – with a set schedule, deadlines for assignments, required study hours and exams set on particular days, there is no flexibility for students who may need to work or care for their family. Likewise, a traditional education structure would have limited course options for a student to choose from.

4 thoughts on “Online education vs traditional education – which one is better and why”

Beautiful post to address the difference between online and traditional education. Yes, they both have their own glories and defects. Thank you for sharing the post.

Nice article! thanks for sharing such kind information with us. online education is the way of the future. Everyone has different experiences with online and traditional classes, and everyone will have their own preference when it comes to earning a degree. Both paths have pros and cons, and both are valued by modern employers across the industries.

Great read!! Thanks for sharing such a great blog.

I have been homeschooling my children and recently they have joined online school an they are doing well.

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Online Education or Traditional: Which is Right for You?

The rapid advancement of technology has transformed the educational landscape, offering learners more options than ever before. With the rise of online education, the choice between pursuing a traditional brick-and-mortar education or opting for online learning has become a crucial consideration for students. In this blog, we will explore the key factors to help you determine which mode of education, online or traditional, is the right fit for you.

Flexibility and Convenience

One of the primary advantages of online education is the flexibility it offers. Online courses provide the convenience of studying at your own pace and location. If you have other commitments such as work or family responsibilities, online education allows you to fit your studies into your schedule. On the other hand, traditional education requires adherence to a fixed schedule and location, with specific class times and campus attendance. Consider your lifestyle and time management skills when deciding which mode of education aligns better with your needs.

Learning Style and Personal Preferences

Reflect on your preferred learning style and how it aligns with each mode of education. Online education typically involves self-directed learning, with a greater emphasis on reading, online discussions, and multimedia resources. If you are self-motivated, enjoy independent learning, and are comfortable with technology, online education may suit your learning style. However, if you thrive in face-to-face interactions, benefit from real-time discussions, and prefer hands-on activities, traditional education may be a better fit.

Support and Interaction

Consider the level of support and interaction you desire from your educational experience. Traditional education provides immediate access to instructors and classmates, fostering direct interaction, immediate feedback, and collaborative learning opportunities. In contrast, online education relies on digital platforms for communication, which may require self-initiative and proactive engagement. Assess your preferred level of interaction and support when choosing between the two modes of education.

Resources and Networking Opportunities

Traditional education often offers access to extensive resources, such as libraries, laboratories, and physical campus facilities. It also provides opportunities for face-to-face networking, forming connections with professors, classmates, and alumni. Online education, however, offers its own set of resources, including digital libraries, multimedia content, and online communities. Consider the resources and networking opportunities that are essential for your educational and career goals.

Cost and Accessibility

The financial aspect is a critical factor to consider when deciding between online and traditional education. Online courses often come at a lower cost compared to traditional education, as they eliminate expenses associated with commuting, campus facilities, and other overheads. Additionally, online education can be more accessible for individuals who face geographical constraints or have limited mobility. Evaluate your budget and accessibility requirements to determine which option is more feasible for you.

Choosing between online education and traditional education is a highly individualized decision. Assess your priorities, preferences, and goals to determine which mode of education aligns best with your needs. Consider factors such as flexibility, learning style, support and interaction, resources, networking opportunities, cost, and accessibility. Remember that both online and traditional education have their own merits and limitations. Ultimately, selecting the right mode of education will contribute to a fulfilling and successful learning experience that sets you on the path to achieve your academic and career aspirations.

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It gives me tremendous pleasure to welcome you to Acacia University. As Provost of this highly innovative and forward-thinking university, I am very pleased to greet you and, on behalf of the faculty and academic staff who are the heart of our growing institution, to invite you to explore these pages to discover what Acacia has to offer you.

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On behalf of the faculty and staff of Acacia University it is my pleasure to say welcome. You are invited to experience the challenging and rewarding educational opportunities we offer current and prospective students.

Our academic programs are led by world-class faculty who are leaders in their fields and who have numerous international and national awards.  In our online classrooms, you will discover what it is like to be driven by excellence and innovation.  Acacia provides its students with the knowledge and skills necessary to increase their potential and to actualize their desired careers.  The entire faculty and staff will work closely and productively with you because you are so much more than a student to us; you are a member of our academic family. Together we will excel in the years to come.

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Welcome to our University! As the Dean for Acacia University’s School of Education, I am excited to be a Westford Education academic team member. Our team shares a vision of excellence and spirit of innovation for creating a better world through global education.

We are committed to the global delivery of high quality educational programs through innovative forms of distance learning. Our students come from all corners of the world and during their studies they collaborate with students from different cultural backgrounds. We are proud that our graduates are now leaders who are impacting the educational lives of students from local and international communities.

We are excited that you are considering furthering your higher education. Our course offerings include innovative and creative educational programs. We have a fully dedicated faculty and support staff ready to assist you with your educational and career goals. Our world-wide presence continues to grow with the expansion of more programs to address the needs of a diverse international population.

Please explore our website which will provide the pathway for a plethora of possibilities that can be accomplished from anywhere in the world. We look forward to our expanding growth and subsequent successes as a world-class university.

Firoz Thairinil is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Westford Education Group, the leading higher education provider and education management company based in the UK and the UAE. As a 21st-century visionary educational leader, Firoz ensures that a solid commitment to high standards and a performance culture are embedded across the entire group.

Firoz comes from a BFSI background with strong management credentials and an MBA from the University of Wales, UK. He started his career in the banking sector in 1995 as a clerical grade officer and rose to the rank of Country Head in 15 years. During his stint in the Banking Industry, he got the chance to collaborate with reputed institutions like Standard Chartered Bank, Emirates International Bank (ENBD), and National Bank of Umm Al Quwain (NBQ).

He started his entrepreneurial journey in 2008 with a solid vision to create an impact in the education sector. Despite being faced with tough challenges initially, the quality of education was never compromised. He ensured a continuous investment in technology and an excellent student support ecosystem. Slowly, the group succeeded in winning the confidence of its learners and the community due to its steadfast commitment to students’ welfare and their success stories.

With Firoz’s consistent determination and hard work, Westford branched out as a network of business schools with students from more than 130 countries across the globe since its humble beginning in 2008. The group’s exponential growth has been accomplished through Firoz’s visionary business acumen accomplished the group’s exponential growth.

Under his leadership, Westford Education Group leveraged technology to disrupt the existing education models, making them more accessible and affordable. The latest technology, combined with partnerships with prestigious universities characterized by rich legacies of hundreds of years, made the group unique in the saturated higher education sector.ted higher education sector.

Samras is a passionate edupreneur with more than 22 years of experience in the BFSI and education industry. A highly consummate professional turned entrepreneur, he holds an MBA in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Anglia Ruskin University, UK, and Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration from the University of Wales, UK, Leadership and Management Development program from UCLA extension, USA. Samras, with his astute leadership skills, has brought many transformational changes and has played an instrumental role in expanding the Westford group to new heights. Over the years, the group has built its reputation on delivering quality and supporting students in their learning journey.

Samras leads the strategic initiatives and projects of the group-wide organization of Westford Education Group. In addition to the group role, Samras spearheads and leads the entire business with P&L responsibility for Exeed College, Exeed ECX, Taito Education, Airtics Education, and Coding School, independent SBUs of the group. He is also responsible for steering the group’s project initiatives and strategic investments for its business expansions and cross-border transactions. Samras focuses on sustaining and growing existing partnerships and developing new associations and affiliations with external partners and plays an instrumental role in the organization’s corporate affairs and public relations.

The group’s exemplary growth has been accomplished through his business skills and his strong commitment to the highest standards of excellence and ethics. He upholds the values of strength, performance and passion and believes these qualities have contributed significantly to his progressive growth, success, and leadership.

Having been at the helm of Acacia University, Exeed College, Exeed ECX, Taito Education, Airtics Education and Coding School, the prestigious entities under Westford Education Group, Samras is on his mission to open the borders of futuristic education and provide opportunities for aspiring learners across the globe.

An award-winning researcher with several years of experience in planning, designing, and delivering business management programs in the higher education and corporate sectors in the UK, Europe, Middle East and India, Dr Vivek currently holds the position of Academic Quality Advisor, Acacia University. A PhD holder in Business Management, Dr Vivek’s responsibilities include safeguarding the academic standards of the university’s teaching provision, achieving outstanding academic quality, and promoting quality enhancement activity to enrich the student learning experience.

An outstanding leader with more than 30 years of experience, Anil is presently spearheading all academic programs for Westford Education Group, as the Academic Director. Anil heads the academic functions of the group responsible for the academic planning, evaluation and assessment administration, curriculum development, academic resources development, accreditation and managing quality and standards.

Anil has taught at leading universities and business schools and is also a master trainer. In addition to academia, Anil had successful stints in the corporate world being an outstanding leader in the domain of Corporate, HR and Business Management Services.

A veteran ex-army officer, Anil was also extensively involved in training while serving in the Indian Army and was deputed by the Indian Government to train the Botswana Defense Force.

As an experienced HR, Training & Development Professional, his expertise includes, conducting MBA courses for working professionals through the aegis of elite global universities, and conducting corporate training and learning festivals for large corporations. He has diverse experience in all HR matters on recruitment planning, induction, training and development, motivational and behavior aspects of a large workforce, manpower planning, labor laws interpretation, etc.

Look Who’s Talking About Online vs. Traditional Education

Any student considering taking courses online who has never done so before may understandably have some trepidation. Is an online course really going to give you the experience and knowledge that you need to pursue the degree — and eventually career — that you want?

Luckily, we are no longer sitting at the starting gate with online learning. With more than 20 years of research available, it is much easier today to assess the impact of online learning on the learning experience, as well as the comparative learning outcomes for students that take an online path versus a more traditional one.

The following experts in learning methodology and online education have taken the time to research, write and publish their own findings. Each is employed by a university, most are full-time professors, though adjunct faculty are also represented.

Meet the Experts

The college learning experience extends far beyond what students may learn in a course. In fact, from one perspective, college as much about learning how to learn and how to think critically as it is about the actual substance of the courses themselves. Because of the importance of the critical thinking aspect and how that process is often supported by interaction between students and faculty, one of the criticisms levied against online education is that it makes these interactions more difficult.

In his piece for the International Journal of E-learning and Distance Education , Dr. Mark Bullen sets out to analyze one particular online course to determine:

• whether the students were actively participating, building on each other’s contributions, and thinking critically about the discussion topics; and
• what factors affected student participation and critical thinking

The conclusions of this study, which had a very small sample size, was that students’ discussions in the online course for the most part did not build upon one another, with most students adding comments that were independent from those of their classmates.

It is important to note that Dr. Bullen undertook this study in the nascent stages of online education with what would be very remedial technology in comparison to what is in use today. Advances such as live chat features, video conferencing, and “threaded” forums and discussion areas may all help facilitate interaction between students and faculty. Further, the instructor of the courses noted that “he might have been able to stimulate some discussion if he had taken a more active role, challenging students to elaborate their positions and to compare them with those of other students.”

Dr. Bullen has a Ph.D. in Adult Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology and a B.Ed. from the University of British Columbia. He was also the Chief Editor of the Journal of Distance Education from 2006 to 2012.

Participation and Critical Thinking in Online University Distance Education

In the journal Quest , Drs. Gregg Bennett and Frederick P. Green undertake a thorough review of the available research on the phenomenon of online education as it compares to traditional classroom-based courses. The article identifies three key factors that collectively determine whether students in online and traditional learning environments will achieve the same outcomes: the instructor, the students, and the tools used for the course. Although the technology (such as the Learning Management System, or LMS) does play a role, it is only a well-designed course with a dedicated instructor and students who are motivated to learn that will, together, determine the success of an online program. Drs. Bennett and Green also find that collaboration, convenience, and easy access to additional resources are benefits that give online courses an advantage. The takeaway from the analysis as a whole is that with the right instruction — and the right students — it is possible to conduct courses online just as successfully as in a more traditional setting.

Dr. Bennett currently serves as a Professor of Health & Kinesiology at Texas A&M University where he was awarded the 2010 ING Professor of Excellence, while Dr. Green continues his scholarship focus on the relationship between leisure, leisure lifestyle and the community inclusion of marginalized groups at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Student Learning in the Online Environment: No Significant Difference?

Dr. Jennifer Jill Harman is an Associate Professor in the Psychology department at Colorado State University. In that role, she has written about the process of developing and teaching online courses from a personal perspective. Having taught in classrooms for more than 15 years, Dr. Harman was at first skeptical about the possibility of translating her rigorous psychology coursework to an online platform. However, with the right tools, she was able to create online courses that provided comparable learning outcomes and that, by their online nature, were accessible to more students. Dr. Harman was even able to incorporate counseling skills into her courses through the use of video conferencing tools like Skype and Google Hangouts.

Dr. Harman holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Connecticut and has published work in the Journal of Family Psychology and Children & Youth Services Review , among others.

Online Versus Traditional Education: Is One Better Than the Other?

In the International Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching & Learning, Dr. Steven Stack has written about how learning outcomes differ in online and traditional educational settings. The study that Dr. Stack uses is particularly interesting because, unlike most other online learning studies, students were not able to choose whether or not they took an online or classroom course, due to an error in the course selection process. Therefore, a set of students took the same class with the same instructor, with some online and some in the classroom. The data from this study, which used 64 total students with a nearly balanced gender ratio, found that both sections of the course performed largely the same, with the online students outperforming the traditional students just slightly. Further, when students were asked to evaluate the course, the two sets gave nearly identical ratings for how much they learned and how they would rate the instructor.

Because of the unique “blind selection” data for this study, it is fascinating to note that the course delivery method, with the same instructor and the same materials, made little to no difference in how students perceived the course or how they performed on exams.

Dr. Stack continues to work as a Professor in the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences at Wayne State University, where his research interests include Social risk and protective factors for suicide, Cultural Axes of Nations and link to Public Opinion on Criminality and Deviance, and the impact of the death penalty on homicide.

Learning Outcomes in an Online vs Traditional Course

In the International Journal of Instructional Technology and Distance Learning, Dr. Yuliang Liu directly addresses the idea of how well students learn in an online environment as opposed to a traditional classroom setting.

Unlike the study that Dr. Sacks published, Dr. Liu used self-selected students at a midwestern university for his analysis. Subjects in one online and one traditional course, using the same learning objectives, were given pretests and posttests to assess their learning, as well as quizzes throughout the course. The results of the study found that online students did measurably better on quizzes and in the course overall and had fewer complaints about the course. In fact, Dr. Liu concludes that “online instruction can be a viable alternative for higher education.”

Dr. Liu holds a PhD in Educational Psychology from Texas A&M University in Commerce. Prior to joining the faculty at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, he taught both graduate and undergraduate courses both in classrooms and online at Southeastern Oklahoma State University.

Effects of Online Instruction vs. Traditional Instruction on Students’ Learning

In the Journal of Online Learning and Teaching (JOLT), Dr. Maureen Hannay and Tracy Newvine conducted a study to assess student perceptions of their online learning experiences as compared to classroom courses. The study surveyed 217 students, most of whom were adults taking courses part-time and found that by and large, this student population preferred online learning and felt they were able to achieve more in an online environment. Students noted the convenience of online learning and being able to balance school with other commitments, something that is a great importance to part-time students. 59% of respondents reports achieving higher grades in their online courses while 57% indicated that they learned more in the online setting.

While this questionnaire may not hold all the answers to online vs. traditional education, it is certainly important to consider the views of students who have experienced both formats.

Dr. Hannay holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management from the University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada and is a Professor of Management at Troy University while Tracy Newvine is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Criminal Justice at Troy University – Global.

Perceptions of Distance Learning: A Comparison of Online and Traditional Learning

In another article from JOLT, Dr. Cindy Ann Dell, Christy Low, and Dr. Jeanine F. Wilker analyze student results from online and traditional sections of the same courses. Rather than relying on tests and student reporting, this analysis looks directly at the work handed in for the different courses and compares the quality. The study looked at both graduate and undergraduate courses, using different assignments for each analysis.

Ultimately, this study found that the quality of work turned in was not significantly different for the online and traditional courses. Rather, the more important indicator of student success was method of instruction that the teacher chose. The study concludes that: “There are a few pedagogical variables that can have an influence including (1) the use of problem-based learning strategies, (2) the opportunity for students to engage in mediated communication with the instructor, (3) course and content information provided to students prior to class starting, (4) and the use of video provided to students by the instructor, to name a few. ”

It can be easy to get weighed down in the technological specifics of online learning, but what this analysis shows is that any instructor can excel in the online space with the right resources and attention to methodology.

Dr. Cindy Ann Dell holds an EdD in Adult and Higher Education from Montana University at Bozeman while Dr. Jeanine F. Wilker holds her PhD in Education with a specialization in Professional Studies from Capella University. Christy Low currently works as an Instructional Designer at Old Dominion University.

Comparing Student Achievement in Online and Face-to-Face Class Formats

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Traditional Education vs. Online Education

Updated 22 September 2021

Subject Learning

Downloads 62

Category Education

Topic Student ,  Teacher

The controversy over whether online or conventional education is better has sparked heated debate. Traditional education is the oldest form of learning that takes place in a classroom environment. Teachers are given a certain amount of time to complete their coursework. A face-to-face approach was used in conventional education, where students and lecturers converged in a classroom for a period of time specified in the school curriculum (Rivera, and Rice, 2002). Online education, on the other hand, is a result of conventional education, with technology serving as the platform's primary engine. Computer technology is mainly used in online learning where the passage of knowledge is through a medium, for instance, internet (Larreamendy and Leinhardt, 2006). This form has come to gain popularity with human civilization and globalization. Online and traditional education has attracted attention for debate over which suites the education sector. It is for this reason that I have found interest to research into understanding the depth of two significant distinctions of online vs. traditional education. In addition, little has been told about the two, therefore, forming a reasonable basis for which research can be initiated. Major arguments have been put forward trying to showcase which of the two, online and traditional education is best for delivering knowledge. Below are the arguments that have been put forward trying to understand the components of the two forms of knowledge. Traditional education.Traditional education is a mode of learning that uses a classroom. The classroom forms the unit environment where the teacher and the students interact freely in exchange for knowledge. It traces its history back in years when schools, colleges, and universities began. When a school was composed, buildings were constructed to define the learning environment. It has been in use in many corners of the world before the coming of computers. Traditionally, students and lecturers used to apply the approach of face to face method to communicate their ideas. This approach was the only medium since there was no other method of delivery.In this approach, students would engage their teachers one on one and feedbacks given back on the same floor. Illustrations and examples would be given to help the students understand the concept of topics being taught as per the school program. Traditionally, education was marginalized as one could only access what was on his/her premises unless otherwise, arrangements made to travel to another premise for an academic trip. The trips would be an adventure to learn from another facility what is not on your own.Traditional education is praised for being cohesive. This means that unity within a classroom would be established incoherent manner where students and lecturers engage one another face to face. This will also tend to create a level of confidence as answers from the lecturers are given at the same time or even minutes later after the question is raised. The mode is glorified on being lively (Rivera and Rice, 2002). The classroom environment is live, and everyone can observe or perceive what is going on without relying on another medium. The classroom setup is such a way that the lecturer is a few meters in front of the students, and this makes it lively and more amusing to engage one another. The approach is praised for being articulate and straightforward. On being simple, it just requires a shade and writing material and the attendance of the lecturer and the students to formalize and commence the education. It is also articulate and straightforward on the fact that everyone onboard can see and engage the source of teaching and affiliate with it as learning continues. The level of confidence is high on this as whatever the lecturer is teaching can be expressed lively to students thus creating a degree of certainty. Students can question their dissatisfactions at the point of noticing it and thus getting clarifications immediately.On the other hand, traditional education has shortcomings as well as advantages. The disadvantages include:Time-consuming- traditional training is time-consuming as much time is needed to elaborate a concept and ensure every student in the classroom is satisfied. There is also the issue of seeking clarification as for if all the student goes for it; there will be much time consumed which may end up compromising the program as fewer concepts will be covered. Costly- traditional education is expensive as classrooms need to be constructed to make learning conducive. This raises the cost burden as the facility must be in such a way that it will harbor good learning environments and there are standards supposed to be met before learning commences.Repetitive leading to fatigue and boredom- traditional education by virtue of being a face to face method of delivery, there tends to be repetition and as a result fatigue. This emanates from the fact that clarifications by the students is sought and if some students find it, therefore fatigue will be experienced from both the students and lecturer (Hughes, Brown, and et al. 2007). Consequently, traditional education has been there years before the coming of computers and technologies related to computers. It has been the bedrock over which knowledge has been shared from the era in history to another. In addition, it has not been without pros and cons as argued here above.Online education.Online education is a mode of knowledge where technology is the medium through which learning takes place. This style has gained momentum especially with today’s innovations and inventions. The coming of computers gave birth to online education where one can gain access to a website or internet platform and get to learn one or two concepts in a particular field of interest. For instance, one can access libraries across the world through computers from the comfort of your house. This has made education more connecting and opened room for diversification. It has also lead to schooling being global and universal. It is not a must that a student travel to the physical learning environment but instead he/she can just buy a computer and gain access to the internet and enroll to online education in institutions that have the learning via the internet. This has seen a number of those getting to be educated increase drastically as it is more convenient, affordable, time-saving, reliable and more connecting to a variety of cultures across the world (Bakerson, and Rodriguez, 2006). A case example is that a student at Harvard University can go online and complements his/her quest for education with another university let say Chicago University. This means that diversity is cultivated and the scope of knowledge is expanded as more knowledge is shared online. Online education, therefore, enjoys some advantages as well as disadvantages as argued below:Time-saving- online learning saves a lot of time. This is the fact one does not necessarily need to travel to the education facility in order to learn. One can learn freely at his/her comfort of the house and get the concepts right. Time is saved as the lecturer can get to reach a large number of students within a span of time. This therefore makes online education a time saver.Affordable- online education is cost friendly as the pricing of the program does not include costs of buildings and other structural facilities. Here everything is done online, therefore, cutting overall cost. As a result of this, huge numbers tend to prefer online education as the price is friendly to their earnings.Convenience- the level of satisfaction is high as one can choose when to study and when not to. This is the fact that online education is always available at your convenient time and premises.Diversity- on this, more knowledge is shared by different people on the same platform. To the consumer this allows him/her to choose from a variety of which suites the cost and preference. With this, more and more students across the globe can enroll and select their best fit and proceed with education quest. Disadvantages Lack of reliability- online education falls short on security as more scams may emerge in the name of offering the same trining. This is evident with un-identifiable sites and portal which are a scam in their nature.Costly – online education is expensive in the fact that one needs to have computer skills and knowledge in order to start learning online. This comes with a cost since more money is required to learn the skills of a computer and buy one to help in navigating the education.Lack of credibility- credibility is a question of concern when it comes to online education. This is co-joined with reliability (Bunderson, Inouye, and Olsen, 1989). The authenticity of the study by online means is a question that requires frequent elaboration to your research especially to your employer after studying. It is evident that online education has both pros and cons. Nevertheless, the complementary approach can be sought to interchange the two styles of teaching to come up with a brand approach to learning.Articulation of argument. Online v/s traditional education form a debate for researchers to try and explain which of the two is best and why. This topic is ripe as there is a little resource to it and more inquiries can be made to try and expound on the knowledge behind the two forms of education which both have pros and cons. There is need to complement both of them so as realize a coherent approach that can improve the credibility of education.In conclusion, the study affirmed that online and traditional education are good, unique, and form basis over which education has developed. They define a variety which one can choose in pursuit of education and results will speak for itself. I, therefore, recommend both of styles since they are complementary and beneficial for one seeking education.ReferencesRivera, J. And Rice, M. (2002). A comparison of student outcomes and satisfaction between traditional and web based course offerings. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, 3, 1-10.Hughes, J.E, Brown, R and et al. (2007). Academic achievement and perceptions of the learning environment in virtual and traditional secondary mathematics classrooms. American Journal,2,4,199-214.Clariana, R and Wallace, P. (2002). Paper based versus computer based assessment: key factors associated with the test mode effect. British Journal of Educational Technology, 33,5, 593-602.Bunderson, C. V., Inouye, D.K. and Olsen, J.B. (1989). The four generations of computerized educational measurement. The American council on Education. New York, Macmillan Publisher, 367-407.Jordan, S. (2009). Assessment for learning: pushing the boundaries of computer based assessment. Research in higher education. 3:11-19Larreamendy,J. and Leinhardt, G. (2006). Going the distance with online education. Review of educational Research, 76(4): 567-605Bakerson, M and Rodriguez, L. (2006). The evaluation of internet usage within the graduate level classroom. Theinternational Jourrnal of learning, 13:15-72.

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Comparative Analysis of Traditional Learning and Online Classes

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Home » Blog » Decoding the Debate: Online vs Traditional Education – Which Path is Right for You?

Decoding the Debate: Online vs Traditional Education – Which Path is Right for You?

Education has always meant waking up very early in the morning and rushing out of our homes with our lunch to catch the ‘almost missing’ school bus. When we get to school, then we proceed to follow the planned day in class as dictated by the teacher. This has been a norm for generations. What in the recent past has made us doubt its efficiency and look for more learning techniques?

One word – Evolution!

We are talking about globalization, growth in technology in the Internet of Things (IoT), the introduction of AI and MI in the workplace, the Modern Workplace Demand, and many others. The conventional teaching approaches may have been effective in the past, but now, they are or rather, they do not equip children for life in this increasingly modern world.

Traditional Schooling – The Pros, Cons, and Ugly Truth

Structured learning environment, social interaction and development, access to resources, community and support systems, lack of individualization, rigid schedules, stress and pressure, limited critical thinking, inadequate life skills training, bullying and social issues, outdated curriculum, overcrowded classrooms, teacher burnout, resistance to change, is online schooling the future of education, final words.

Traditional education systems cover the aspects of predetermined syllabus, and timetable and are controlled by teachers only. It has its advantages but also significant challenges and disadvantages. Let’s look at it in detail:

They offer stability in daily schedules and particular curriculums so that the children can have a firm schedule to follow.

Promotes friendly communication, cooperation, collaboration, and organisation of other activities not necessarily linked with academics.

Recommended for providing qualified teachers and other educational assets inclusive of libraries as well as laboratories.

Offers stakeholders opportunities to form support networks and contribute to community activities.

The Bad 

This could be attributed to the instance whereby learning styles and rates are applied and no consideration is made for them.

Specific, tangible, and tightly prescribed timeframes can be a problem in nurturing creativity and breakthroughs about yourself.

As with most things that revolve around evaluation, the early emphasis on grades as well as standardised performance tests puts a lot of pressure on the learners.

Teacher outputs can also be contrary to creativity and critical thinking may not be encouraged, but students are forced to memorise.

Special attention to academic success may undermine such spheres of human activity as, for example, an ability to deal with practical problems and personal well-being.

It is a known fact that schools can often become environments that cause bullying peer pressure and other social problems among students which are very unhealthy for their mental state.

Problems can arise when curricula have not been designed to meet the fulfilment of modern requirements and technological revolution along it may increase the learners’ vulnerability with performing future tasks.

The major disadvantage is that large numbers of students result in low student-teacher ratios which may mean that a student does not receive adequate one-on-one assistance as required.

Teachers experience burnout when working conditions are demanding and rewards lacking hence a decrease in the quality of education.

They are sometimes rigid institutions that can slow reform and innovative teaching methods in the mainstream educational systems.

It has been witnessed in the coronavirus situation also, acceptance of credit for online schooling provides it the chance to be the next vogue in education. Flexible schooling could be beneficial because one can study at any time and from any place which may be helpful for learners in rural areas, which might not offer a particular level of schooling.

On the broader level, it weaves flexibility in learning with quick responsiveness to the traits/expertise of the learners, using intelligent and learner-centered technology. In addition, with the help of online platforms, the availability of a variety of courses is achieved with professors who have professional recognition; moreover, online learning is cheaper because it does not use transportation and facilities costs.

Besides fulfilling the educational needs of the learners, online schooling also enables the learners to develop the necessary Dig help skills, basic to the facing technological world. However, it is also necessary to underline that implementing this model, as it is described, it is necessary also to answer all these questions – the question of equity in resource distribution, the question of interest, the question of need, etc.

When it comes to studying, there’s no correct way. It greatly depends on the child’s personal factors and learning differences. Both the online and traditional ways of education have their merits and demerits, this, therefore, means that the decision arrived at will have to fit the needs and the career path of the child.

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Best Education Essay Examples

Online vs. traditional education.

1212 words | 5 page(s)

Today, when online education is becoming a vital part of the education family, almost all major American colleges and universities offer distance education, or online, courses. Online education, or as it is often called “e-education,” is able to reach a broader student audience, address the needs of learners in better ways, and save money, while using the principles of the contemporary learning pedagogy (Forman, 2001). Online courses allow students to take classes while living in different states or in different countries. Some schools offer traditional courses, online distance courses, or hybrid courses; the latter includes taking both traditional and online classes. Even schools with the most traditional educational strategies, often called “brick and mortar” schools, gradually start offering online courses in response to the skyrocketing number of students partaking in the online experience. As online education becomes increasingly popular among young people, pushing traditional educational models aside, it is necessary to compare and contrast these two approaches and find out which one offers more positive outcomes for students and their academic performance. The aim of this essay is to find out whether online learning is better, worse, or equal to traditional in-class learning while analyzing its advantages and drawbacks.

The difference between traditional and online education is especially noticeable in three dimensions: access to learning, classroom space, and the possibility of implementing innovative teaching practices. One of the major characteristics of online education is flexibility; the ability to take classes in any place with an internet connection at any time of the day or night. Traditional classes, on the contrary, are inflexible and much more teacher-centered (Barab, Thomas, & Merrill, 2001). Access to information is not limited to materials available in the classroom, and access to the classroom materials is no longer limited to the time of the lesson or to the physical classroom space. Being able to study when and where you like affords students from all walks of life with the availability of obtaining a degree. Whether the student is a young mother who is unable to attend traditional courses due to a lack of a babysitter, or a full time worker who cannot rearrange their schedule to make the traditional class times, these individuals will be able to obtain a degree regardless of that situation by simply taking online courses. The flexibility offered by the online education gives particular categories of students an important opportunity to meet their educational needs.

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On the other hand, the advantage of traditional courses consists in offering student direct contact with teachers. Face to face communication allows students to ask questions concerning their classes and immediately get the answers they seek. Students are also able to meet with their classmates, developing friendships and fostering teamwork. The proponents of the traditional classroom model believe that the face-to-face contact allows students to enjoy the ability to learn with others and to know their instructors (McDonald, 2002). Indeed, learning in front of the PC may not be compared to the charm of going to lectures, living in the campus and visiting student parties, however, all of this has little to do with academic performance. The proponents of online learning argue that the latter offers students more time for digesting the information they receive and responding. They also claim that, while attending distance courses, students are able to better develop the skills needed in conducting open discussions, where each of the students receives more of an equal standing in comparison with a face-to-face discussion. This happens due to the fact that online students can make their responses around the clock with no restrictions, which enhances motivation and involvement on the learner’s part. Also, online classes provide an easy access to peers all over the world, which facilitates the establishment of a scholar networking for the intellectual exchange and collaboration purposes (McDonald, 2002). This has a profound impact on the professional life of the faculty, since it is no longer limited to geographical limits, when choosing collaborators.

The second significant difference between online and onsite education is classroom space. The very concept of the online learning has facilitated the invention of another, more suitable term – learning space. Online learning has been revolutionary in the world of education, creating an opportunity for collaboration, discussion and building a community among its participants, without being bound to the limits of a physical classroom. Usually faculty is free to choose between several online applications to encourage interaction through synchronous or asynchronous methods. Such methods work to extend class discussions, offering students the ability to delve deeper into a specific topic, affording students the opportunity to discuss a reading or build off of a lecture. This type of collaboration between students in the same class, students who may reside in different states or even in different countries the whole world over is possible only through the use of the virtual classroom (Barab, Thomas & Merrill, 2001).

The third significant difference between the two reviewed educational methodologies is the application of the new online teaching practices considered to be unusual for traditional education. Online learning strategies are known to involve innovational pedagogical technologies that greatly facilitate the process of learning. Such practices, as asynchronous and synchronous class discussions; constant commenting and answering questions of the classmates; application and document sharing were never or rarely used in the on-site courses before. In a traditional class, document sharing involved printing numerous copies of documents, thus involving additional costs. Collaboration and discussion in a group were limited by classroom space, restricted to a standard lesson time and to the opportunity of being heard and seen in the classroom (McDonald, 2002). Acquisition of these practices by the online education programs has turned them into an efficient and fascinating way of learning.

It is possible to see that there are different benefits to both the traditional education and the online education offered to students in this day and age. There are some individuals who are unable to work without direct classroom instruction; they are auditory learners, not visual ones, and for them the traditional classroom will be the place in which they are able to shine. Other students are visual learners, finding the traditional classroom tedious and boring, with the auditory lectures a waste of time as they have already read all of the material covered in the lecture. These visual learners excel when placed in an online classroom, as they are able to work at their own pace as opposed to the pace of the teacher or professor. While it cannot be stated that one method is better or worse than the other, it can be stated that one method will be better for some students than it will be for others, allowing college students to get the most out of their college experience and providing them with the availability to do it their own way.

Have you enjoyed reading this sample? Make sure to check more college essay examples from our best writers online!

• Barab, S., Thomas, M. & Merrill, H. (2001). Online Learning: From Information Dissemination to Fostering Collaboration, Journal of Interactive Learning Research 12(1), 105-143.
• Forman, R. O. (2011). A comparison of success in on-campus versus distance learning for information systems course. Issues in Information Systems, 12(2), 63-66.
• McDonald, J. (2002). Is “as good as face-to-face” as good as it gets? Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, 6(2), 10-23.

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Online-Education vs Traditional-Education, Essay Example

Pages: 3

Words: 859

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Online education has opened the door for individuals to attend college that historically would have been otherwise barred from attending college due to various reasons that will be examined in this work in writing. Traditional education is that which has historically been offered in the classroom setting however, in contemporary times many students are attending college via the Internet at colleges and universities that offer their classes in an online forum, which may be either asynchronous or synchronous in nature. While certainly there can be much said in support of attending a college or university in the traditional manner the fact is quite simply that online college classes have opened the door to a college education for many individuals who previously were effectively barred from attending college due to financial and other limitations. It is certain that online college classes offer a new set of options to those who in the past did not have the luxury of the choice of whether or not to pursue the furthering of their education.

Online-Education Versus Traditional-Education

Online education has opened the door for individuals to attend college that historically would have been otherwise barred from attending college due to various reasons that will be examined in this work in writing. Traditional education is that which has historically been offered in the classroom setting however, in contemporary times many students are attending college via the Internet at colleges and universities that offer their classes in an online forum, which may be either asynchronous or synchronous in nature.

Asynchronous and Synchronous

It is important to define ‘asynchronous’ and ‘synchronous’ in order to full examine the issue of traditional college versus online college classes. Asynchronous means ‘not occurring at the same time’ while synchronous means just the opposite, or that which occurs at the ‘same time’. Therefore it can be understood that asynchronous classes are those which students take but are classes of the nature that all participants are not learning simultaneously and synchronous classes involve participants all learning at the same time on a specific schedule.

New Opportunities Via Online Education

Online education has opened the door for many individuals to attend college that previously would not have been able to do so due to limitations placed by time constraints, familial responsibilities, and the necessity of taking a second job to support family members and children. For example, the single parent who works all day and comes in to children needing assistance with homework, baths, dinner and bedtime would  not historically have been able to further their education or at least not very easily. However, the ability to attend colleges or universities via an Internet connection allows the single parent to, after having put their children to bed for the night, to further their education and ultimately bolster their future achievement and earning potential.

Opening Doors and Educating Minds

Consider the mother who now has an empty nest but who always stayed at home with the couple’s four children, as the father was the breadwinner. Such an individual might be embarrassed to attend the local junior college where her children are attending however; she may easily attend college online and earn a degree, which she may put to good use for the remainder of her productive life.

Consider as well the paraplegic young woman who after having flipped her car is unable to walk much less carry a book bag back and forth across the college campus without assistance but who has a bright eager young mind. This young woman can easily attend college via online classes and pursue her dream of becoming a criminal defense attorney whereas had she only the college campus as an option may well have opted out to live a life on a disability income spending each day depressed in what is a never-ending life of despair and regret.

Finally, consider the young man or woman who recently graduated high school, and who finished with a 4.0 grade point average but who is from a very poor family who does not own a car. This individual may upon graduating from high school and working a part time job is able to purchase a computer and then attend online college classes. However, the possibility of the same individual working part time in order to purchase a vehicle, then attempting to pay college tuition along with the purchase of clothing for the campus and paying the parking fees and other fees associated with attending college on a campus, is doubtful. In fact, this individual, according to statistical findings, will never actually manage to attend college and is likely to land in dead-end jobs with no hope for a better future.While certainly there can be much said in support of attending a college or university in the traditional manner the fact is quite simply that online college classes have opened the door to a college education for many individuals who previously were effectively barred from attending college due to financial and other limitations. It is certain that online college classes offer a new set of options to those who in the past did not have the luxury of the choice of whether or not to pursue the furthering of their education.

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