Researchers designed a prototypical Virtual Mentor (VM) system called Learning By Asking (LBA) in order to see whether e-learning can replace classroom learning. The Learning By Asking platform aimed to address several existing problems of e-learning, such as boredom from only text-based resources.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Zhang, D., Zhao, J. L., Zhou, L., & Nunamaker, J. F. (2004). Can e-learning replace classroom learning? Communications of the ACM, 47(5), 75-79. doi:10.1145/986213.986216

Can E-Learning Replace Classroom Learning? 

-  To study the effectiveness of e-learning versus in person instruction, subjects from the University of Arizona were split into two experimental groups, a traditional classroom group and an e-learning group, with the e-learning group using the interactive e-classroom in a research lab and the in-person group with an instructor in a classroom. 
-  The success of students was measured by objective measures which were test grades, and also subjective measures which was the perceived satisfaction of students. 

E-Learning vs. Classroom Learning Research Methods

Background and Purpose of "Can E-Learning Replace Classroom Learning?"

-  The test grades of e-learners were significantly better than in-person learners, while the satisfaction levels between the two groups were not significant. 
-  Although the researchers cannot say that e-learning can replace classroom learning, the study suggests that e-learning is a strong alternative for in-person learning. 


Findings in "Can E-Learning Replace Classroom Learning?"

-  One explanation for the results of this study is that while in-person learning is very instructor-centered, e-learning is much more learner-centered. 
-  LBA Platform gives learners the opportunity to focus on topics they are struggling with as they can continue to review the online materials. Yet, e-learning requires more maturity and self-discipline which is what accounts for the higher dropout rate in e-learning. Overall, however, e-learning is a promising alternative to classroom learning. 
-  Students liked the multimedia presentation and liked the self-controlled learning process 


Discussion in "Can E-Learning Replace Classroom Learning?"

The Learning by Asking Platform has two subsystems:
1) Asking a Question: learning takes place with real time questions and answers interaction between students and Learning by Asking. 
2) Interactive E-Classroom: includes online lectures with video and audio of the instructor, power point slides, and lecture notes all on one web page. 

Learn Before

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