ABSTRACT

This study explored the perceptions of 51 graduates of a distance learning health and social care programme, identifying what factors contributed to students continuing for the duration of their distance learning studies and completing their degree. An appreciative inquiry approach was used to identify the positive aspects of the students’ experience. Support from family, tutors and employers as well as flexibility of studying at The Open University UK, enabled graduates to continue their studies. A key aspect of the graduates’ success was the supportive feedback received from tutors, which they reported enabled them to build their knowledge, skills and confidence as they progressed to completion of their degree. Flexibility came in different forms, from being able to access their learning materials at any time around their busy lives, to tutors being very responsive to students’ needs. The findings are discussed in relation to the students’ development of competence and autonomy, factors that contribute to strengthen students’ intrinsic motivation.

摘要

这项研究探索了51名远程学习健康和社会护理计划毕业生的看法，确定了哪些因素促使学生在远程学习期间继续学习并完成学位。鉴赏性探究方法被用来识别学生体验的积极方面。来自家庭，导师和雇主的支持以及在英国开放大学学习的灵活性，使毕业生得以继续学习。毕业生成功的一个关键方面是从导师那里获得的支持性反馈，他们报告说，这使他们在完成学位课程时能够建立自己的知识，技能和信心。灵活性有多种形式，从可以在忙碌的生活中随时访问他们的学习材料开始，导师对学生的需求非常敏感。讨论结果与学生的能力和自主性发展有关，这些因素有助于增强学生的内在动力。