Is Identical Really Identical? An Investigation of Equivalency Theory and Online Learning

While there is emerging research suggesting that courses delivered online produce at least comparable learning outcomes relative to traditional classroom-based courses when using similar instructional methods, the extent to which this conclusion can be reached based upon evidence varies substantially within the management discipline. While subjects such as management science, management information systems, organizational behavior, and strategy have been subjects of "Online vs. classroom" comparison studies, courses in the human resources discipline have yet to be extensively considered in this body of research.