The Learning Experiences of Students in a Face-To-Face Learning Environment Compared to an Online Learning Environment

• Main Author: Gatlin, Julie Anne
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01.01.2020
• Subjects: Adult Basic Education; Adult Students; Asynchronous Communication; Authentic Learning; Cognitive Development; Cognitive Style; Computer Assisted Instruction; Course Content; Distance Education; Educational Environment; Educational evaluation; Educational Opportunities; Educational Resources; Educational technology; Electronic Learning; High School Students; In Person Learning; Learning Processes; Online Courses; Outcomes of Education; Student Attitudes; Student Experience; Student Motivation; Student Needs; Student Surveys; Teaching Methods; Technology education
• ISBN: 9798569984855

The purpose of this study was to explore high school students’ and teachers’ experiences and perceptions of effective online learning compared to a face-to-face learning environment. A great deal of evidence exists showing that no significant difference should be expected regarding a well-designed online learning environment compared with well-designed in-person learning environment (Clark, 1983). Significant differences still exist in the way students perceive their online experiences during learning (Paul & Jefferson, 2019). Districts offer online courses because it is considered to be more cost-effective. For example, online courses allow districts to eliminate the need for additional physical space (Krafcik 2010; Olster, 2010). This was a mixed methods study that included a single subject case study that examined the experiences and perceptions of one high school teacher. Data instruments include a student survey using a 5-point Likert Scale that measures teacher presence, social presence, and cognitive presence. A teacher survey consisted of ten open-ended questions on the planning and delivery of the online course and traditional face-to-face course. The survey aligns with student responses from interviews and focus group discussions. The researcher was the primary instrument for data collection and analysis. This study pointed out important differences in the student-teacher relationship between online and face-to-face instruction. It was concluded that important differences between the two modalities were found regarding the teachers’ perceptions of the students and regarding ways that the teacher and students communicated. These findings deepen the understanding of the teacher-student relationship in online learning, as compared to face-to-face learning. These findings could assist in thinking of ways to promote better student-teacher relationships in online teaching.