Online vs. In-Class Learning : Using Aplia in Principles of Economics

Although the literature about the effectiveness of technology in classrooms is extensive and the results are mixed, there exist a limited number of studies about the effectiveness of Aplia, an online learning and teaching tool. This paper offers a new approach regarding Aplia’s effectiveness on student performance. Using a Logit model, we estimate the likelihood that students will pass the Principles of Macroeconomics and Microeconomics courses with a grade of “C” or better. We collected information from approximately 800 students from 2006-2011. We ran separate regressions for Business students, who are required to take these courses, and for non-business majors who are not required to take these courses. We also ran regressions for our course in Microeconomics separately from our courses in Macroeconomics. Our results show a negative but insignificant effect of Aplia on passing grades in these courses. We found robust results regarding effectiveness of Aplia