Advantages And Disadvantages Of Distance Learning

Research into the literature on the different learning outcomes of distance learning and traditional instruction was scant before 2006. Only recently has systematic experimental evidence been provided that shows the learning outcomes of students, particularly in the K-12 grade range. Much of the literature is either inconclusive or contradictory in the results between distance learning and traditional instruction. For example, some studies find that exam results are better for students who complete a course in a traditional learning environment while other studies claim that students who complete online courses do better (Stack, 2015). Also, most of the research carried out is specific to a particular subject or course, rather than a general overview showing the advantages and disadvantages of online versus traditional learning.

However, comprehensive research carried out by the U.S. Department of Education in 2010 showed that “students in online conditions performed modestly better, on average, than those learning the same material through traditional face-to-face instruction” (p. xiv). An interpretation of this finding is that online learners may have more time to think, and therefore consider the material within their own learning capabilities. This, in turn, may lead to better results. Another key finding in this report is that “instruction combining online and face-to-face (traditional instruction) elements had a larger advantage relative to purely face-to-face