Comparison of Levels of Satisfaction between Online and Classroom Learning Among Physical Therapy Students, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand

Abstract

Objective: The study aimed to compare the levels of satisfaction and determine factors influencing satisfaction with learning, between online and classroom learning. Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire survey included 195 students of the Faculty of Physical Therapy, Srinakharinwirot University, during the 2021 academic year who had experienced online/on-site learning. Data (including demographics, learning style, and factors affecting learning) were collected by a questionnaire, which had a Cronbach's alpha of .94. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, were reported. Analytical statistics such as the paired t-test, Pearson correlation, and linear regression were used to report associated factors of satisfaction with learning (the outcome). Results: The participants showed different satisfaction levels with online and classroom learning (p < .05). The extent to which learning factors (student, family, teacher, and environment) predicted levels of satisfaction for online learning were R2 = .59, .48, .64, .82, respectively and for classroom learning were R2 = .70, .51, .71, .79, respectively. Conclusion: The levels of satisfaction with online learning differed from those of classroom learning. Factors related to being a student, family, teacher, and environment predicted the level of satisfaction with learning.