Evaluating Learning Outcomes and Assessing Social Work Skill Development: Comparing Online vs. In-Person Education

Abstract This article presents results from an evaluation of learning outcomes in a social work skills class between online and in-person students. Students were compared on background and academic factors, including grade point average prior to graduate school, time since completion of undergraduate education, undergraduate degree, and previous work and training in social services. Students also completed a skills self-assessment at the beginning of the class and upon completion. Data used to measure learning outcomes included total points earned and grades. Data were also collected from instructors’ field notes and observations. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate analyses, including one way and repeated measure ANOVA. Online students perceived they entered the class with more skills but no differences existed at the post-assessment. Minimal differences existed in students’ scores on major assignments except the bio-psycho-social assessment; in-person students scored higher. Instructors identified rapport building online as challenging. Results suggest parity of online and in-person learning. It is important to continue researching which students do best in--online and in-person coursework--in order to assist students in making the best choices for their learning preferences.