Factors influencing student learning in introductory accounting classes: A comparison of traditional and nontraditional students

A recent study extends prior research by presenting a model that incorporates more factors into a single study than has prior research. The model includes several variables not examined in the accounting education literature to date, such as the effects of family activities, work activities, extracurricular activities and classroom environment, on performance. The study uses structural equations modeling (SEM), statistical methodology, to examine the components of the models. SEM allows simultaneous testing of an entire model of student performance instead of a simple explanation of the relationship between 2 variables. The study tests the model by examining both a traditional and a nontraditional student population. The results provide strong support for parts of the model.