Online versus in person course supply
ResearchCourse format can change access to training, especially when travel, location or schedule matters. A supply comparison should describe what providers list without assuming one delivery format is more effective. Format labels can be incomplete and course categories differ in size, so the method needs to make those limits visible.
Use the most specific format field
When schedule-level delivery information exists, use it instead of a broad provider label. A provider may offer online and in-person courses at the same time. Keep an unknown category for incomplete records rather than forcing a decision. This gives readers an honest picture of the data quality behind the comparison.
Compare shares as well as record totals
Large categories naturally produce more records. Compare the share of online, in-person and unknown entries within each category alongside the raw totals. This makes it easier to see format distribution without implying that a large category has more choice for every learner or location.
Read format as an access condition
Online supply may broaden reach for people outside a training centre. In-person supply may be relevant where supervised equipment or local practice matters. Neither pattern tells you whether a course fits your learning needs. Use it to identify options, then inspect the schedule, attendance rules and practical components directly.
Report the limits with the comparison
- State the observation date, filters and primary category rule.
- Keep unknown or mixed format records visible.
- Show both category shares and absolute record totals.
- Do not infer learning quality or outcomes from delivery format alone.
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