Chapter 3: Web-Based Instruction and Learning: What Do We Know from Experimental Research?

This narrative review examines the published findings from experimental studies dealing with Web-based instruction (WBI) and measured learning effects. Particularly, the review divides relevant research into media comparison studies, into studies that tested conditions for successful WBI learning, and into studies focused on individual differences that exist in learner behavior to WBI. Results of the analyzed studies show that WBI learning is at least as effective as traditional classroom learning, although there are many different factors contributing to these findings. It was found that besides the new mechanism of Web-based learning, traditionally-known factors were tested to influence WBI learning. Also, conceptual and methodological shortcomings of the reviewed studies were found to limit the generalizability of the findings in the field of WBI research. Finally, recommendations for improving future research and theory development are given and briefly discussed.