Online learning - for students and for teachers - is one of the fastest growing trends in educational uses of technology. Although earlier studies based on older technologies concluded there was not much difference between distance learning and regular classroom learning, the multi-media and Web-based applications now available significantly improve the learning environment and outcomes.

The report concluded that, especially among the older learners at the college undergraduate, graduate and professional studies levels, "Students who took all or part of their class online performed better, on average, than those taking the same course through traditional, face-to-face instruction."

This is good news for distance learning adult students, most of the time working full-time jobs, who do not have the luxury of being able to regularly attend on-campus classes.

And, it is good news for employers who are considering whether the formal education earned by prospective employees is sufficient if it was obtained through a reputable distance learning program. It is not only sufficient, but, as the US Department of Education report concludes, it is also probably better.

A copy of the complete report is available by selecting the link to the left, and is also available directly from the US Department of Education by pasting the following link into the URL address line of your browser: http://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf