Abstract
We compare students in online and lecture sections of a business statistics class taught simultaneously by the same instructor using the same content, assignments, and exams in the fall of 2001. Student data are based on class grades, registration records, and two surveys. The surveys asked for information on preparedness, reasons for section choice, and evaluations of course experience and satisfaction. Using descriptive statistics, regression analysis and standard hypothesis tests, we test for significant differences between the online and lecture sections with regard to performance and satisfaction with the course as well as motivation and preparedness for taking an online course. We report several differences, including better performance by online students.
Acknowledgement
This paper has been presented at the Hawaii International Conference on Business in June 2002 and at the North Carolina Teaching and Learning with Technology Conference in March 2003. Thanks to several anonymous referees for helpful comments.