Comprehensive comparison of traditional and distance learning master programs

Abstract

In Turkey, higher education takes great interest with multiple choices. Distance learning is emerging education opportunity especially for people at work. This method that applied in higher education provides time and place independent education. With innovative advantages, it must be evaluated in different dimensions and other education types. The purpose of the study is to compare the results of demographic questionnaire and the oral interview. The study group consist of the master students of Gazi University traditional and distance learning information systems. 46 postgraduate students attended online questionnaire and 6 students attended the oral interview. According to the results of questionnaire and the oral interview, advantages and disadvantages of distance education and traditional learning were evaluated from the point of view of students. It was found that students prefer distance learning due to time and permission problem, Gazi university's popularity and high applicant criteria in traditional learning. The average of age and the working year of the distance students are lower than those of traditional learning. Meanwhile, there is not any difference between two groups in terms of computer usability and computer usage year. On the basis of the results, some suggestions are proposed for distance learning. It is believed that blended learning or virtual laboratory will enhance postgraduate distance learning effectivity in the future.