A Process Evaluation of an Online BSW Program: Getting the Student Perspective

Abstract

This paper reviews the student perspectives of an online BSW program. The structure of this program is presented, along with findings from a mixed-method evaluation of four matched BSW courses where each instructor taught both the online and face-to-face sections. Although there are no identified differences in performance, grades, or retention, students report differences in developing instructor and classmate relationships and in overall course satisfaction. Qualitative findings highlight the advantages of the flexibility of online education, tempered by challenges in making connections and fewer spontaneous interactions. Implications for online course development are discussed.

Keywords:

• BSW students
• distance learning
• program evaluation