Comparison of Academic Performance for Students Taking Online versus Traditional Remedial Instruction for Algebra

This study compared high school students' test scores using online instruction and traditional instruction. It is not known if, or to what extent, there is a statistically significant difference between students' academic performance in Algebra 1 when using online versus traditional instruction. This research study uses Zimmerman's self-regulated learning (SRL) theory as the foundation of study. This study is based on two research questions; R1: Is there a statistically significant difference between students' academic performance in Algebra 1 given online instruction compared to traditional instruction in the summer semester? R2: Is there a statistically significant difference between students' academic performance in Algebra 1 given online instruction compared to traditional instruction in the fall semester? The sample was archival test scores from remedial Algebra 1 in online (n=88) and traditional (n=90) instruction in a Texas school district. This was a quantitative ex post facto study and used an independent means t test for data analysis. There was no statistically significant (t (176) = -1.17, p = 0.244) difference between students' academic performance in Algebra 1 given online instruction (N = 88, M = 18.364, SD = 5.972) compared to traditional instruction (N = 90, M = 19.422, SD = 6.097) in the summer semester. There was no statistically significant (t (175) = -0.627, p = 0.532) difference between students' academic performance in Algebra 1 given online instruction (N = 88, M = 19.102, SD = 6.249) compared to traditional instruction (N = 89, M = 19.674, SD = 5.891) in the fall semester. This research study's findings concluded online instruction is comparatively equivalent to traditional instruction with remedial students in Algebra 1. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]