A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF ONLINE VS. TRADITIONAL CLASSROOMS: STUDENT PERFORMANCE AND ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

This study aims to explore and compare student engagement and performance in online versus traditional classrooms through a qualitative literature review. As the educational landscape evolves, understanding the differences between these learning environments is crucial for optimizing educational strategies. A synthesis of various studies reveals that traditional classrooms consistently outperform online settings in terms of student participation, interaction, and motivation. Traditional classrooms offer a structured environment with real-time feedback, social presence, and peer interaction, which significantly enhance engagement. In contrast, online classrooms, while offering flexibility and personalized learning, face challenges such as reduced social interaction, lack of immediate feedback, and the need for higher self-regulation, leading to lower engagement and performance. The findings suggest that while online learning platforms can be effective, they require improved pedagogical strategies and digital tools to foster deeper interaction and collaboration. This study recommends further research on blended learning models that combine the best elements of both environments to maximize student engagement and performance. Future research should also explore the role of social presence in online learning and investigate the long-term impact of both learning environments on academic success and retention.