A summary of research on the effectiveness of K-12 online learning

Citation

Patrick, S., & Powell, A. (2009). A summary of research on the effectiveness of K-12 online learning. Vienna, VA: International Association for K-12 Online Learning. Retrieved from http://www.inacol.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/iNACOL_ResearchEffectiveness.pdf

Abstract

This memo examines the outcomes and descriptions of the existing studies on K-12 online learning effectiveness and provides a literature review. There are a number of rigorous studies that have examined the question, "Is online learning effective?" However, there is not a single, large-scale, national study comparing students taking online courses with traditional students, using control groups in the instructional design. The most in-depth, large-scale study to date is a meta-analysis and review of online learning studies from the U.S. Department of Education.This memo contains three sections: 1) a summary of the major study by the U.S. Department of Education, 2) a brief literature review of online learning research and studies, and 3) future research recommendations. The conclusion of the meta-analysis of these studies is that online learning offers promising, new models of education that are effective.

Authors

• Patrick, Susan
• Powell, Allison

Reference Type

Report

Keywords

• Online learning