An analysis of student performance in internet delivered and classroom-based information technology courses at Waukesha County Technical College

Abstract

As a result of more individuals gaining access to the Internet due to affordable connectivity options, technological progress and easier access to computers, a growing number of people are turning to online learning opportunities. While few may question the ability to deliver content in this fashion, many are critical of the quality of this alternative teaching method. Online courses in the Business Information Technology Department at WCTC were first offered in 1998. As of the spring semester, 2006, research has not been conducted to determine the quality of any online courses offered within the department. The purpose of this study was to analyze the quality of online Information Technology courses at WCTC by determining whether statistically significant differences exists between student performance in traditional, classroomled and non-traditional, online offerings of the Introduction to Microsoft Word course. The first research question in this study sought to determine if WCTC students perform differently in an online class as compared to a traditional, classroom-led class. The results of this study showed that there was no difference in student performance for participants in either course delivery method. The second research question raised the matter of whether gender played a role with respect to student success in both online learning courses and traditional courses. Based on the findings of this study, it was determined that gender did not play a role in student performance. The third research question in this study sought to determine the role that age plays with respect to student success in both online and traditional courses. It was determined that younger students do not perform as well as their fellow older students. The final research question was designed to analyze the role that a student's cumulative GPA plays with respect to student success. It was discovered that students with higher GPAs are more likely to outperform students with lower GPAs. Results of this study were consistent with findings discovered in the literature and shows that Information Technology students at WCTC perform equally well in the traditional and online delivery methods.