Use and impact of GED distance learning options on student outcomes
Prins, E., Kassab, C., Drayton, B., & Gungor, R. Use and impact of GED distance learning options on student outcomes. Funder: Center for Rural Pennsylvania ($50,000). 2009-10
- Prins, E., Drayton, B., Gungor, R., Kassab, C. (2011). GED Preparation Through Distance Learning in Rural Pennsylvania. Center for Rural Pennsylvania.
The Goodling Institute partnered with the Center for Rural Pennsylvania to investigate the types, use, and effectiveness of distance learning (DL) for General Education Development (GED®) candidates in rural Pennsylvania. Specifically, the study sought to identify the types and use of GED® distance education in rural Pennsylvania; describe the demographic characteristics and participation patterns of rural GED® students in DL and face-to-face classes; determine the effectiveness of DL in preparing rural students to pass the GED® tests; assess the cost of DL provision; and examine the advantages and disadvantages of DL for GED® study. The primary data sources included the Bureau of Adult Basic and Literacy Education’s (ABLE) e-Data system and GED® Demographics survey, a telephone survey of non-ABLE DL providers, and telephone interviews with a key informant and DL staff members and students from ABLE-funded programs. The research found that DL is as effective as face-to-face classes in preparing students to pass the GED® tests.