CORRELATES OF LEARNING IN A VIRTUAL CLASSROOM

The Virtual Classroom® consists of software enhancements to the basic capabilities of a computer-mediated communication system in order to support collaborative learning. Results of quasi-experimental field trials which included matched sections of college courses delivered in the traditional and virtual classrooms indicate that there is no consistent significant difference between the two modes in mastery of material by students, as measured by grades: in a computer science course, grades were better in the on-line section. Subjectively, most students report that the Virtual Classroom improves access to educational activities and is, overall, a "better" mode of learning. However, these favorable outcomes are contingent upon a number of variables, including student characteristics, adequate equipment access, and instructor-generated collaborative learning processes. © 1993 Academic Press. All rights reserved.