A COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF ONLINE AND TRADITIONAL EDUCATION

Drawing on recent empirical studies, meta-analyses, and theoretical frameworks from educational psychology and instructional design, the analysis reveals that neither modality is universally superior; rather, their effectiveness is contingent upon contextual factors including subject matter, learner characteristics, institutional resources, and pedagogical implementation. The article argues that a blended or hybrid approach, which strategically integrates the strengths of both modalities while mitigating their respective limitations, represents the most promising pathway for equitable and effective education in the post-pandemic era. Policy recommendations include investing in digital infrastructure, enhancing teacher training in pedagogical technology, developing adaptive assessment frameworks, and prioritizing learner-centered design in educational innovation.