Delivering Graduate Marketing Education: An Analysis of Face-to-Face versus Distance Education

Marketing education may be delivered through a number of different methods from face-to-face to distance education. This study analyzes MBA student perceptions and preferences with regard to face-to-face versus distance education methods for delivering a course in marketing management. The results indicate that consistent course structure can be developed across delivery formats but that some pedagogical adjustments may be required for the distance education format, particularly in the areas of class participation and course-related activities. The findings also show that students appear to select the distance education delivery method because of convenience, not quality, since distance education was found to be the least effective and least satisfying method of delivery for the students studied. The study concludes by discussing the implication of these results.