Student Success in Face-To-Face and Distance Teleclass Environments: A matter of contact? (#2 - #1 lost in server)

Part 2

 

Teddi S. Deka and Patrick McMurry
Missouri Western State University

 

The face of distance learning is continuing to change and with it comes an ever increasing influx of students.  It is no longer just for those who are to far to travel to campus but now includes those taking some classes on campus or others who have a conflict in work schedule.  With this increase in popularity comes the need to improve this method of instruction.  This artice examines several factors that influence the effectiveness of distance learning including background, prepardness, self-perception, frequency of contact with the instructor, and type of contact with the instructor.  The study examined compared face-to-face classes with distance classes that had the same subject. 

 

It was found that reading comprehension was indicative of obtaining a higher grades.  For distance classes frequency of contact with the instructor played a role. 

 

There were several suggestions made to improve distance learning including making sure that the learners have the background knowledge (reading abilities) to keep up with the class in a limited contact environment, structuring the class so that learners do not get behind on the material due to procrastination, and keeping frequent contact between instructor and student.