Title: Learning retention in online versus F2F instruction

Authors: Cynthia Heagy, Lee Revere, Doug Rusth

Addresses: School of Business, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX 77058, USA. ' School of Business, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX 77058, USA. ' School of Business, University of Houston-Clear Lake, Houston, TX 77058, USA

Abstract: This research explores the long-term effect of online learning by evaluating learning achievement in a subsequent, related course. A prior study indicated online learning was inferior to face-to-face learning. This study expands that research by following the same students, both online and face-to-face, from the prerequisite class through a subsequent course. The results indicate that if online instruction is inferior to face-to-face in learning complex content, reduced learning achievement does not have an adverse effect on learning achievement in a related, subsequent course. The results of this research are an important step towards understanding the long-term impact of online learning.

Keywords: online courses; face-to-face courses; F2F learning; online teaching; online learning; e-learning; longitudinal research; learning retention; student performance; educational management; management in education; learning achievement.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMIE.2007.014381

International Journal of Management in Education, 2007 Vol.1 No.1/2, pp.108 - 118

Published online: 03 Jul 2007 *

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