Comparative Analysis of Learning Models in Distance Education

Abstract

The study was conducted to know the comparison between online and offline learning among faculty in Agricultural Universities by considering the factors such as topical preferences, additional topics requirements and cost effectiveness analysis. A distance education course on ‘Enhancing teaching competency’ was offered by ICAR-NAARM through online and offline learning mode. Forty respondents underwent the learning through offline mode (hard copy of the learning resources) and 18 respondents learnt through online mode (elearning resources). An exploratory type of research design was used for the present study.Statistical methods used for analysis of data. The ‘z’ test for proportions tests the null hypothesis that there is no significant difference between the proportions among two groups in case of topical preferences against the alternative hypothesis that there is some difference. The null hypothesis is rejected when the probability is by “inclusion of small surveys as activities”. The additional topics suggested by offline learners are different from online learners. As per the study it can be concluded that offline learners require more expenditure to carry out the distance education course compared to online learners. Hence, it is better to consider online mode rather than offline mode for any distance courses, as online courses have more attention due to its cost effectiveness, flexibility and convenience in learning.