A Comparison of Student Profiles and Performance in an Introductory Non‐Majors Biology Course Offered 100% in the Classroom vs. 100% Online

Academic institutions are under increasing pressure to provide students with online alternatives to the traditional 100% classroom format. One concern for biology faculty is whether online courses can provide students with an education comparable to one offered in the more traditional format. In this presentation, I will present the methods used to deliver an introductory non‐majors biology course that was offered simultaneously in a traditional 100% classroom format with one offered 100% online. Both formats included the same reading and homework assignments, identical postings of faculty presented lectures and similar, though not identical laboratory activities. Analysis of the student profiles along with a comparison the outcomes and performance upon completion of the courses will be presented. This presentation will not address all the concerns faculty may have in moving away from a traditional course format, but may provide information to suggest that online students are able to acquire a comparable education as students taking courses in the traditional format.