Online Learning Considered Superior to Traditional Learning

A study was conducted by the U.S. Department of Education on the value of distance learning. The study focused mostly on college-level. The U.S. Department of Education encouraged the results be interpreted and applied to postsecondary education and taken liberally in regards to K-12 online education.

The study extended across several distance learning programs from 1996 to 2008. It measured the learning outcomes of: online learning programs; traditional campus learning programs; and hybrid learning programs (a combination of the former.) The USDE reports the results as: "Students who took all or part of their class online performed better, on average, than those taking the same course through traditional face-to-face instruction."

This study had a tremendous impact on the credibility of the online learning community. The study supported that not only was online learning considered equal to traditional learning, but that it provided a superior learning environment. Hybrid learning, according to the study, presented the best student performance. As quoted: "Instruction combining online and face-to-face elements had a larger advantage relative to purely face-to-face instruction than did purely online instruction."

For students that benefit from flexible scheduling, are self-motivated and able to focus on their deadlines, distance learning is a superior learning method to campus learning. Better still is a campus that offers online classes. Make sure to find out the classes your college has available when signing up for postsecondary education!