Online Learning Can Be Beneficial for Self-Esteem by Hindering Social Comparison in First Year University Students

Abstract

The present study investigated the relationship between online-only learning compared to online learning combined with in-person learning; and self-esteem via social comparison processes in first-year university students. We hypothesised that online-only learning would be negatively associated with self-esteem due to fewer opportunities for social comparisons including positive comparisons. We collected data from first-year university students (N = 128), some studying exclusively online, while others engaged in online learning supplemented with in-person classes during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. This was a unique opportunity as students could not choose between online and in-person learning and thus avoided the influence of respective learning preferences between the student groups. Results did not show a bivariate association between the learning environment (online-only versus online with in-person learning) and self-esteem. However, students with online-only classes had fewer opportunities for social comparison and made fewer positive comparisons than those also experiencing in-person learning. Moreover, more positive social comparison was associated with higher self-esteem. Importantly, and contrary to our hypothesis, online-only learning appeared to protect self-esteem in first-year students when positive comparison was controlled for. Limitations of the study and study implications are discussed.