Press, Larry. A Modular, Web-based Introductory Programming (2003).
This article describes a comparison between two introductory computer programming courses, one based on lectures and a text book, the other utilizes online lectures and series of short training modules encapsulating the content of the text. After delivering the course via online software modules for 2 semesters, the PI could not find any significant difference in the accumulated knowledge of the students. The author spends a good deal of time describing the design of the software modules and intimates the modules better captured the attention of the students due to brevity.
In light of last week's discussion of legitimate fields of study for online education, I think this is an excellent example of subjects learn-able in an online format. Computer programming (in my limited knowledge) requires a basic understanding of key concepts, rote under understanding of syntax, and an ability to apply knowledge in varying contexts. This type of learning does not necessitate an instructor standing by with all the answers. As far as I can tell, all computer knowledge requires active resourceful thinking on the part of the learner. Basic programming should not be an exception.
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