Though traditional learning is not dependent on technology, it utilizes technology in order to supplement various learning techniques. The reason traditional learning is hypothesized to be more efficient in this case is because of the fact that it can eliminate the components that may not function well in online learning, described above. The proponents of online learning, however, argue that it is much more efficient, as students are still able to turn in assignments and ask questions, but that it enables those at a distance to still fulfill their classroom obligations and learn despite being unable to attend class in person. The opponents of such learning, however, or the advocates of traditional learning, maintain that interaction with a professor, and with other students, is actually part of learning, and that this interaction can lead to questions and thoughts, and further research even. With online learning, such interaction is sorely missed.

The opponents of online learning further state:

"Great as all this sounds, the trend towards online learning raises the question of just how effective online education is compared to traditional education. According to a recent study conducted by SRI International for the U.S. Department of Education, online learners perform slightly better than students in traditional face-to-face...

The study analyzed research that compared online and conventional learning at institutions of higher education and in K-12 settings between 1996 and 2008."
Furthermore, the advocates of traditional learning compare such studies to other data that finds that, despite advances in online learning techniques, it does in no way surpass the positive aspects of traditional learning, especially as it does not prove more efficient.

This paper has discussed how online learning and traditional learning compare on the learning scale, and how traditional learning seems to be a more superior form of learning, and that, despite technological advance, online learning does not prove more or less efficient either. The paper has advocated traditional learning for the simple fact that it has worked for so many generations, throughout history, and for the fact that studies referenced above do not prove the online learning is superior.

"Definition of Online Education as Distance Learning." Web. 09 Mar. 2012. .

"Earn Online Distance Degrees. Accelerate Your Career." Compare Online Learning vs. Traditional Learning. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. .

"ReadWriteWeb." ReadWriteWeb. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. .

"Online vs. Traditionally-Delivered Learning." The University of West Georgia. Web. 09 Mar. 2012. .