Performance indicators in online distance learning courses: a study of management education

Abstract

Examines student performance indicators in online distance learning courses offered on the Internet at a mid‐sized private college in the USA. A sample of 74 undergraduate and 147 graduate business students in ten courses were selected for statistical analysis of their grade performance and the relationship with various indicators. The research results include findings that gender and age are related differently for undergraduate and graduate students to performance in distance learning courses, and that undergraduate grades, age, work experience, and discussion board grades are significantly related to overall course performance. However, standardized test scores (SATs, GMATs) and organization position level are not related to the performance in distance learning courses. Makes recommendations for further qualitative and empirical research on distance learning student performance in online computer‐mediated courses and programs.

Citation

Alstete, J.W. and Beutell, N.J. (2004), "Performance indicators in online distance learning courses: a study of management education", Quality Assurance in Education, Vol. 12 No. 1, pp. 6-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/09684880410517397