ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING EFFECTIVENESS ACROSS FOUR DIFFERENT INSTRUCTIONAL DELIVERY MODES

Many major universities either have started or have expanded their online course and degree program offering. As more working adults go back to school, and younger generations seek the convenience of virtual learning systems, higher education establishments had to increase their investments in online learning platforms. This research focuses on comparing the effectiveness of different course delivery modes by comparing student performance across various delivery platforms that include traditional, hybrid, online and experiential. We do so by distinguishing between the assessments components of the same international business course, and consider student performance on rote level, critical thinking and engagement components. Data supports the thesis that while online learning can be effective in achieving rote-level learning, critical thinking can be that much more challenging outside face-to-face interactions in the classroom. As would be expected, student engagement levels seem to be more correlated with critical thinking outcomes. We discuss the findings and their implications on learning, and offer venues for further inquiries.