Online or Face-To-Face?

     Studies have show that distance learning is as effective as face-to-face instruction, the only difference appears to be that the drop out rate is high for distance learners. Should this dropout rate be considered in determining the quality of the education provided through distance learning? That's a hard question to answer. I think the first thing to consider is why that dropout rate is higher.
     I feel that what research is saying is that regardless of the situation that information is presented in the information, when well presented, remains of the same quality. An engaged and active learner will absorb quality information and be able to work through exercises and activities using it. With distance learners dropping out more it would stand to reason they are not engaged or have some sort of issue with the environment. The primary difference between the two environments is of course the teacher. A physical presence over the shoulder with immediate accountability is a real motivator and it's a conditioned one. Students have traditionally spent a lot of time in a classroom, surrounded by peers, and with a teacher. Why is that so different? Pressure. An enormous amount of self disciple is required to sit in a room by one's self with nothing to motivate them in the moment to do something they may not feel like doing. Then by the time due dates roll around a person may be under huge pressure to fulfill what the need to do. If this classes with other situational factors such as a teacher the student doesn't get along with, another class having assignments due, a personal emergence, the perception the student can't finish in time, etc then the logical response is to quit. If the situation by all accounts seems hopeless it only makes sense the student would drop out. Even the simple realization that distance learning does not fit with a student's own learning style could provide sufficient motivation to drop out. Unfortunately I feel like the former is more likely than the latter.
    Despite this I don't feel that this situation effects the quality of distance learning, only represents something that both teachers and students need to better understand to make distance learning work better for more students. Recognizing that online courses need to be designed with a lot of support and have charismatic, engaging lessons and work to help keep students engaged and involved. Holding a student's interest and providing ample support can help students with maintaining discipline or even dealing with their lack of it may prove to be the a good response.