Online Teaching Vs Face to Face (F2F) - Insight from Lecturers and Students of Manipal International University

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to explore the effectiveness of teaching methods used during face-to-face and online classes in Manipal International University (MIU). Lecturers need to constantly work on enhancing their skills in order to create competent graduates who can cope in this highly technological age. Much emphasis has been put on student-centred learning; however, only a small percentage of lecturers make an effort to evolve from being sages who know all to facilitators who discover methods to maximize learning.  Fifty-two students and fifty-one academicians from Manipal International University, Nilai, Malaysia participated in this research by responding to an online questionnaire. The findings of this research clearly indicate that there is a need to analyse students’ learning styles and diversify teaching methods. Online courses are becoming increasingly popular and education providers are required to meet the demands of the current generation by offering more online courses; however, students and lecturers are not ready for traditional classroom education to be completely replaced by online programmes. Blended learning which provides a combination of both online and traditional classes seems to be the best choice for private universities to fulfil the needs of learners with different learning styles.