Investigation of distance education students' opinions on distance education, their expectations on student-student interaction in distance education and their perceptions regarding the community feeling

Abstract

Distance education offers opportunities for widespread and continuous learning, granting access to information without limitations of time or location. Despite its numerous advantages, the absence of social interaction stands out as a primary obstacle in online learning, as these interactions can play a pivotal role in mitigating students' feelings of isolation and disconnection. Current trends in higher education seek to support students not only in meeting their academic requirements but also in addressing their emotional and mental well-being. This study aims to investigate the perspectives of associate degree students engaged in distance education on various aspects of this mode of learning, their expectations regarding interaction with fellow students, and their perceptions of the community feeling. To conduct this study, a cross-sectional survey method was utilized, involving 102 associate degree students enrolled in distance education programs. The findings of this study suggest that students express a reasonable level of satisfaction with distance education. Students enrolled in distance education courses express a desire to engage with their peers while pursuing online courses. While students may experience some sense of community in the realm of distance education, this sense may not reach a fully satisfactory level. Both the sense of community in distance education and student-student interaction in online courses have a significant and positive impact on students' overall perceptions of distance education.