Distance Learners Research Articles

Partial Severance: Distance Education and Parent Universities in Ghana

Distance Education has come to stay and it is very significant in the advancement of making education accessible to a broader popular. This distance education stems from a parent university, however, there seem to be a partial disconnection between the distance education and their parent university. The purpose of this study is there to explore the factors that account for the partial severance and the perceptions of distance education students regarding their sense of connection with the parent university. The qualitative research approach was adopted for the study. Consistent with the approach, case study design was used for the study. Purposive sampling technique was used to sample twenty-five (25) participants for the study, twelve (12) lecturers and thirteen (13) students. Interview guide was the research instrument used to collect data for the study. The thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The study revealed that inadequate integration and communication between distance education students and the main campus significantly contribute to their sense of disconnection. Moreso, Distance Education students perceive their connection with the parent university as weak and insufficient due to feelings of isolation and exclusion from campus activities. They face significant communication gaps and lack access to resources and support services equivalent to those available to on-campus students. Based on the key findings, it is recommended that, parent universities who have established distance education should launch regular channels of communication to keep distance learners informed about campus events, resources, and opportunities for engagement. Also, parent universities must prioritize equitable access to resources and support services for distance education students. By creating a more inclusive and supportive environment, there will be a strong connection between parent universities and distance education, ultimately enriching their academic journey and overall satisfaction.

The Relaxed Tutorial Project: distance learning and anxiety in Classical Studies

Abstract ‘Relaxed’ events are now common across the public Arts and Heritage sectors. Although designed with the needs of autistic children and their families in mind, they suit people with a range of access needs. Our project at The Open University asked: what would a ‘relaxed tutorial’ look like, and who might benefit from it? Across two years (2021–2023), tutors in the Department of Classical Studies at The Open University trialled a set of autism-friendly accessibility adjustments to live online tutorials for distance learners on a Roman History module. We found that relaxed tutorials were welcomed by students with anxiety disorders, caring responsibilities, chronic conditions and low confidence, as well as by autistic students. Since the project was concluded in 2023, relaxed tutorials have been rolled out across further Classical Studies modules at The Open University. Their principles and structure offer a new way of looking at accessibility adjustments which could be adapted to other teaching contexts and levels.

Proposed enhanced gap analysis model for information systems sector (ISSERVQUAL)

Orientation: Gap analysis in the information system (IS) sector is difficult to assess.Research purpose: A gap analysis model based on SERVQUAL is proposed to assess the gaps in IS services.Motivation for the study: During coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), there has been an extensive use of distant learning and virtual meeting applications. Yet, there is no well-documented way to evaluate the IS service provided.Research design, approach and method: The proposed model adds a performance dimension covering the main characteristics of IS services. The model is tested on the internet service providers in Egypt as a case study. A questionnaire for the proposed model is developed, validated and distributed.Main findings: The questionnaire is statistically analysed to find whether there is statistical difference between the expectation and the perception for each factor. Then the data are tested to find whether the gender of the respondents, internet service provider and the status of whether the respondent pays for the service themself have a significant effect on the gap scores or not. Finally, an ordinal regression fit is introduced to estimate the overall satisfaction of the customers based on their gap score.Practical/managerial implications: Despite SERVQUAL being an adequate tool to analyse the gaps for different services, it needs some adaptation to fit different services. One important drawback of SERVQUAL analysis for the IS sector is that the dimensions of SERVQUAL do not fully cover the customer expectations in the IS sector.Contribution/value-add: This paper attempts to fill this gap in the literature by introducing the ‘ISSERVQUAL’ model.

Developmental regulation processes and age-related motivation of distance education students

AbstractThe rise of technological advancements and the pandemic have made distance education increasingly prevalent, demanding high levels of self-regulation. This research addresses the integration of three core developmental regulation models of lifespan development and the motivators proposed by self-determination theory. Although regulation models are widely used in organizational contexts, their application in education is limited. Action regulation strategies and motivation are essential for student success across the lifespan. Age diversity can also influence students’ responses to these demands. Thus, this study aimed to gain insights into regulatory processes (meta-regulation, goal engagement, and disengagement) and motivation (internal and external) in undergraduate distance-learning students of psychology. Three hundred thirty-eight students (74.9% females) from different developmental stages of emerging adulthood, early adulthood, and middle adulthood participated in an online survey (aged 18–58 years; M = 30.80, SD = 10.18). Results revealed that middle-aged students scored higher on internal motivation compared to those in emerging and early adulthood. Conversely, the emerging adult group reported higher external motivation. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) indicated higher levels of relentlessly pursuing goals in conjunction with meta-regulation might enhance the internal motivation of distance education students across various developmental stages. This study extends developmental regulation models to (distance) education, highlighting the significant relationship between internal and external motivation. It underscores the importance of developmental regulation and motivation for students from various backgrounds. Given the growing prevalence of distance education, the study discusses implications for supporting positive outcomes for distance learners.

EXPLORING ONLINE LEARNERS’ PERSPECTIVES IN RELATION TO PROCTORED EXAMS

This study targets to investigate the opinions and perceptions of the online and distance learners regarding to online proctored exams. A qualitative case study was employed to explore views of the participants related to the online proctored exam practice. The data were collected from 69 undergraduate distance learners via an online form. A content analysis approach were employed to analyze the data. As a result of the content analysis three themes namely, satisfaction, dissatisfaction, and exam administration emerged. The findings indicated that while online and distance learners were satisfied with the online proctored exams as they are secure, convenient, accessible, and reliable they also dissatisfied because of the technical problems and surveillance. Furthermore, the results also revealed that the administration of the online proctored exams needs to be reviewed. It is hoped that the findings will pave the way for future applications and research on the design and implementation of online proctored exams. Implications and future research suggestions are discussed.

PAPERLESS ASSIGNMENTS AND CHALLENGES INVOLVED: VOICE OF DISTANCE LEARNERS

The study was planned to explore the challenges faced by distance learners during paperless assignment process. This initiative was introduced a couple of years ago at a distance learning university in Pakistan. Target population comprised on distance learners of M. Phil Education and MBA (col) sessions 2017 to 2019 programs running online through Learning Management System (LMS). Total Population Sampling (TPS) technique was followed and all distance learners of both programs were engaged. It was mixed-method research comprising both structured and open-ended information. The instruments employed were two questionnaires: one on Likert Scale and the other was open-ended. The reliability coefficient was 0.71, and the open-ended questionnaire was validated through six subject experts. The structured questionnaire was sent to all 563 students and in response 132 students filled out the online questionnaire. Quantitative data was analyzed through descriptive statistics while qualitative data was analyzed through NVivo software. The main problems highlighted were study material relevance and late delivery, understanding and processing of paperless assignments, access and skills of ICT, financial constraints, evaluation of paperless assignments, and instructors’ feedback. Students suggested that textbooks should be revised and delivered in time, connectivity issues should be resolved, free internet packages should be introduced, LMS training should be conducted, in time feedback in descriptive form by instructors must be provided to the distance learners.

INTRINSIC MOTIVATION OF DISTANCE LEARNERS IN HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

As information and communication technologies and learner characteristics in higher education develop, so do distance education methods, which are implemented at various levels by higher education institutions. The involvement of students in the learning process is one of the most crucial factors to consider throughout the distance education application transformation, which might change depending on the conditions. At this point, it can be stated that the intrinsic motivation levels of learners involved in distance learning play a decisive role in participating in learning processes. Therefore, examining the intrinsic motivation levels of distance learners is seen as an element that needs to be emphasized. This justifies the study’s goal, which is to analyze the intrinsic motivation levels of students who get distance education from higher education institutions concerning factors including age, gender, employment, and educational status. The relational survey model, one of the general survey models, was utilized in this study, which included 327 distance learners. In terms of distance education applications, the findings of the study have a guiding nature for the administrators working in higher education institutions. The analyses carried out revealed that there were no significant differences in the intrinsic motivation levels of distance learners according to their gender, employment situation, or level of education. Furthermore, it has been found that as people get older, their intrinsic incentive for learning grows. A list of recommendations based on the data gathered within this study is provided at the end.

Unveiling the link between test anxiety, online engagement, and academic achievement: insights from LMS interaction data

ABSTRACT There is a growing body of literature that recognizes the importance of test anxiety in learning contexts. However, currently little is known about test anxiety experienced in online assessment and its role in online learning efforts and outcomes based on insights from Learning Management Systems (LMS) interaction data. This study investigated the mediating role of test anxiety in the relationship between behavioral engagement and academic achievement. To test the research model, the study data were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling approach. The analyses drew on data from 2994 online distance learners. Behavioral engagement of students was derived from learning analytics indicators based on LMS interaction data. Our results showed that test anxiety reduces the positive effect of online behavioral engagement on academic achievement. This study provides valuable insights for educators, students, and test designers in understanding the dynamics between online test anxiety, behavioral engagement and academic achievement and developing effective strategies for online learning. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between these factors for educators, students, and test designers to develop effective online learning strategies.

Cloud Computing Performance Evaluation Model for Open and Distance Learners in Nigeria

The increasing need for fast, secure and dynamic processing of information has necessitated the wide scale adoption of cloud computing. The educational sector especially the open and distance learning institutions are not left out of the need for distributed technology. This study presented a model that provided insight into the pre and post usage adoption variables associated with cloud computing adoption and performance in open and distance learning (ODL) setting. Partial Least Square (PLS) was adapted to test seven hypotheses on the causal relationship between the variables. Five out of the seven hypotheses were supported. The pre-usage and satisfaction oriented constructs showed more significant contributions in determining performance impact than the task technology fit oriented constructs. The study also provided insights on user preferences for decision making by educational institutions, service providers, business owners and government. Keywords: Cloud Computing, TUSPEM, Performance, Utilization, Cost, Ease Of Use

Потенциальные риски полного перехода на онлайн-обучение. Психолингвистический анализ

The advantages of psycholinguistic methods when analyzing the situation in education are described in the article. A relevant issue concerning the importance of getting education in the traditional “live” environment is raised. The total reality digitalization hazards are discussed from several points of view. The differences between information perception during online and offline education are analyzed. The idea that distant learning is the same as traditional learning when it comes to information presentation ways and the degree of information comprehension is refuted. The evidence of the twenty-year-long gradual shift to consciousness digitalization is given. According to the achieved results digital modality engagement in perception process will increase, while that of kinesthetic one will decrease, which will lead to exacerbation of the problem of modern people consciousness digitalization. Prerequisites to cultural and ethnic identity loss and national languages degradation within the societies in case of continuing americanization are studied. The outcome of school and university influence weakening, being replaced by advertising and mass media, is described. Hazards of mental and physiological disorders emerging and evolution due to the fully digitalized education are forecasted. Some of the possible solutions to prevent risks are given.

EFL Distance Learners’ Perceptions of Attitudes, Ease of use, and Interaction as Determinants of Satisfaction

The aim of this study is to explore English foreign language (EFL) students’ perceptions of distance learning in the aftermath of Corona pandemic lockdown. Specifically, it investigates students’ attitudes, perceived ease of use, online course flexibility and interaction as determinants of learning satisfaction based on their own distance learning experiences within the Moroccan educational context. An online questionnaire was administered to 147 undergraduate EFL learners from three different higher education institutions: the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, and Higher School of Education and Training in Béni mellal, and the École Normale Supérieure (ENS) in Rabat. The research findings indicate that the main factors influencing students’ online learning satisfaction are their attitudes towards online learning, online course flexibility, and student-teacher interaction. The results have implications for promoting distance learning among students.

Physical Education Curriculum Implementation Using Hyflex Learning Modality in the New Normal

In order to address issues on the delivery of quality education during the COVID-19 pandemic and to transition to post-pandemic teaching and learning delivery, hyflex was introduced in many schools all over the world. The purpose of this study is to explore the implementation of the physical education curriculum in junior high school using hyflex learning modality and identify the teaching practices, challenges and opportunities that teachers encountered during implementation. This study utilized a qualitative research method using a case study approach employing focus group interview with physical education teachers in a selected private school in Zamboanga City. Hyflex learning modality allows students to attend classes flexibly. The learning modality presented an avenue for teachers to become efficient in the digital age thus responding to a future-ready education landscape. Digital literacy and innovative pedagogical strategies among teachers were seen as opportunities in this modality. Challenges on internet connectivity, technological resources, assessment and monitoring of online distance learners (ODLs), and equity in learning need to be addressed first. The results of this study provided education administrators an overview and a guide in curriculum innovations in physical education to improve the delivery of the course in the context of new normal.

A Scalable Advising Model for Part-Time, Distant Learners in Graduate Health Professions Education Programs

Abstract Problem There is a need within graduate health professions education (HPE) programs to align advising practices to support an increasing number of working adult learners, especially those studying part-time and from remote locations. Despite the recognized importance of the advisor-advisee relationship in graduate learner success, many advisors lack formal training and have to manage multiple completing priorities. Furthermore, a lack of established evidence-based practices for graduate HPE advising has left each program navigating advising independently. Approach The Department of Health Professions Education, Uniformed Services University, established a small cadre of faculty to serve as academic advisors (n = 7) in August 2018. This cadre uses an advising model based on 5 advising practices, called TOTAL Advising– train the advisors, onboard the learners, touch base frequently, annually review learners, and learner review. These advising practices are meant to provide a wrap-around support system to ensure learners feel empowered to fully engage in the program, while managing the demands of their personal and professional lives. TOTAL Advising provides the framework needed to achieve 3 guiding beliefs: each learner is capable of completing the program, fostering community, and providing clear communication. Outcomes Between May 2020-May 2024, learners who completed a degree (n = 21) were interviewed about their advising experiences by a program evaluator after they graduated. The themes observed from these reflect the program’s 3 guiding beliefs. Additionally, from May 2018–May 2024, of the 574 learners who enrolled in the program, 568 (99%) graduated with a certificate or degree, only 6 (1%) were disenrolled. Next Steps The next steps for TOTAL Advising involve a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of the training program for advisors and collaborating with other graduate HPE programs to share best practices in advising, discuss emerging challenges, and shape advising practices in the broader HPE community.

How important is community to mathematics and statistics distance learners?

Being part of a community has been shown to support the development of academic resilience, promote retention and improve attainment. This paper discusses the findings of a study which investigated the importance and experience of student communities for distance learning students currently studying mathematics and statistics modules. It was found that community with students on the same module or on similar degrees was the most important, whilst community with students in the same faculty; at the same university; with similar characteristics and with students in general were less valued. The proportion of students that felt community was important was significantly higher than those that felt part of a community. Students near the end of their degree felt community within a module was more important than students who had recently started, but felt other community groups were less relevant. Equally, students near the end of their degree were more likely to feel part of a community with others studying the same module than students at the start of their degree. Qualitative responses reinforced the priority of community with students on the same module but indicated a significant proportion of students had no interest in community, and there was notable variation in student views on how community could be generated.

The ravages of war: challenges and resilience in medical education in Sudan

The armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) beginning on April 15, 2023, has thrust Sudan into a worsening humanitarian crisis, severely affecting all aspects of Sudanese life, including medical education and healthcare systems. This commentary explores the current state of medical training in Sudan amidst this conflict and discusses potential strategies to address the challenges faced by both students and educators.Following a comprehensive literature review of articles using keywords, and published from 2015 to the present, 2024, the challenges were categorized into issues related to the curriculum, educational resources, wellbeing of students and educators, human resources, and oversight by governing bodies. The proposed solutions involve the government, humanitarian organizations, medical schools, and innovative curricular strategies. Partnerships and the involvement of the Sudanese diaspora are crucial for situational assessment and execution of culturally sensitive, contextualized solutions. Alliances with other medical schools can facilitate the relocation of students and faculty. Faculty development programs and student support are paramount during this phase.Deploying distant learning strategies combined with small group learning, such as e-learning, problem-based learning (PBL), team-based learning (TBL), and ambulatory teaching, can mitigate some adversities in the Sudanese educational experience during war. Implementing collaborative evaluations and solutions can help Sudan's educational system navigate the conflict, enhance resilience, promote healthcare, and facilitate planning for the post-conflict period.

METACOGNITION AS A CATALYST FOR IMPROVED LEARNING OUTCOMES IN OPEN & DISTANCE EDUCATION

Challenges in open and distance education are unique to the learner and generally result in a gap between what is desired and what is realized. This paper explores how metacognition works wonders in bridging this gap and leading to improved learning outcomes within Open and Distance Education (ODE) environments. Metacognitive strategies foster self-regulated learning and assist students in properly planning, monitoring, and assessing their learning processes. In line with this, this paper discusses how metacognition could make a difference in improving academic achievement, promoting independent learning, and building lifelong learning skills within ODE. We demonstrate, from in-depth research and analysis of best practices, how the integration of metacognitive approaches into practice could go a long way in closing the achievement gap and optimizing the educational experience for distance learners. The findings underscore the critical role of metacognition in letting students rise above intrinsic ODE difficulties toward superior learning outcomes.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0715/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Distance Learners’ Basic Digital Competence in Higher Education

Basic digital competence is essential for learners in higher education and especially in the field of distance education. The main purpose of this study is to understand the levels of digital competence of distance learners in Turkey according to the variables of age, gender and owing a computer. The participants were consisted of 243 distance learners studying at various disciplines of a state university. Data were collected through a survey via digital competence scale. The findings of the research indicated that basic digital competence of distance learners were high in communication and moderate in problem solving, university’s virtual tools and social communication and information and data literacy. However, distance learners are the least competent in digital content development. In addition, statistical analysis indicated that basic digital competence of distance learners did not differ in terms of gender. On contrary, significant differences existed in the information and data literacy of the students with regard to having a computer and age. The results of the study displayed that it is important to include the improvement of digital competence into the distance education to provide distance learners an opportunity to reach high basic digital competence and to facilitate learning.

An institutional AI digital assistant: what do distance learners expect and value?

The rapid evolution of Generative AI (Gen AI) and its integration into higher education necessitates a critical evaluation of teaching and learning practices. Many students already use publicly available AI digital assistants (p-AIDA) like ChatGPT for academic purposes. However, there are concerns around the use of such p-AIDA tools, in particular in terms of data privacy, academic integrity, Intellectual Property (IP), and the impact on the quality of education. Therefore, this mixed methods study explored the perspectives from 10 distance learning students on whether the development of an institutional AI Digital Assistant (i-AIDA) might mitigate some of these concerns. By comparing i-AIDA with p-AIDA our research underscores the potential benefits and limitations of in-house Gen AI tools in enhancing learning experiences without compromising academic integrity, IP or privacy.

Teaching Study Skills for Distance Learners

Teaching Study Skills for Distance Learners

A Study on Motivational Factors and the Constraints Faced by Distance Learners of ODL Certificate Course Tea Cultivation Technology

A Study on Motivational Factors and the Constraints Faced by Distance Learners of ODL Certificate Course Tea Cultivation Technology