Web Based Learning Modalities for Distance Learning Success: A Comparison of 4 Universities

This study examined factors contributing to web-based learning success in distance education using eLearning platforms from students and faculty perspectives. The research investigated student self-efficacy, online self-efficacy, motivation, prior knowledge, and course expectations alongside institutional factors including student support, social presence, direct instruction, learning platform, faculty interaction, student interaction, learning content, and course design. Outcome factors examined were student satisfaction, knowledge acquisition, and knowledge transfer. Data were collected from 396 students and 80 lecturers across four Ghanaian universities. Results from students' perspectives identified course design, learning content, and prior knowledge as significant predictors of success. Faculty emphasized six key factors: course design, instruction, learning platform, learning interaction, learning content, and social presence as critical for effective web-based learning.