Superficial social inclusion? Reflections from first-time distance learners

Paper

Brown, Mark, Hughes, Helen, Hard, Natasha, Keppell, Mike and Smith, Liz. 2012. "Superficial social inclusion? Reflections from first-time distance learners." Mortimer, Rachel (ed.) 15th International Higher Education First Year Experience Conference (FYHE 2012): New Horizons. Brisbane, Australia 26 - 29 Jun 2012 Brisbane, Australia.
Paper/Presentation Title

Superficial social inclusion? Reflections from first-time distance learners

Presentation TypePaper
AuthorsBrown, Mark (Author), Hughes, Helen (Author), Hard, Natasha (Author), Keppell, Mike (Author) and Smith, Liz (Author)
EditorsMortimer, Rachel
Journal or Proceedings Title15th International Higher Education First Year Experience Conference (FYHE 2012)
ERA Conference ID50886
Number of Pages5
Year2012
Place of PublicationBrisbane, Australia
ISBN9781921897399
Web Address (URL) of Paperhttp://www.fyhe.com.au
Conference/Event15th International Higher Education First Year Experience Conference (FYHE 2012): New Horizons
International First Year in Higher Education Conference
Event Details
15th International Higher Education First Year Experience Conference (FYHE 2012): New Horizons
Event Date
26 to end of 29 Jun 2012
Event Location
Brisbane, Australia
Event Details
International First Year in Higher Education Conference
FYHE
Abstract

This paper will report on a research project that sought to investigate the experiences of first-time distance learners from their own perspectives, using their own words collected through video diaries. The research took place against a background of low retention and completion rates among distance students, which brings in to question what actually happens to learners once they are enrolled. While the project will ultimately generate evidence-based deliverables targeted at both distance education providers and distance learners, this session will report on a selection of learner stories that have highlighted the issue of superficial social inclusion in the absence of support and engagement strategies that reach out at the point of need throughout the study lifecycle. Participants of this session will be asked to reflect on the challenge of supporting distance students to engage effectively with study amid other commitments; whilst being mindful that, to survive the distance, they need to be independent, self-motivated learners.

ANZSRC Field of Research 2020520102. Educational psychology
390404. Educational counselling
390409. Learning sciences
Public Notes

This publication is copyright. It may be reproduced in whole or in part for the purposes of study, research, or review, but is subject to the inclusion of an acknowledgment of the source.

Byline AffiliationsMassey University, New Zealand
Charles Sturt University
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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