River pilots for time`s flow: identifying factors to guide on-line distance education students in the use of their learning time

This research draws on recent studies of student time perception and use.<br />Case studies are used contrast the time use experiences of tertiary distance<br /> education (on-line) students with tertiary students studying in traditional faceto-face classes with an online component. Previous studies and experience highlight a mismatch between the measurable and hence ”real” amount of time students spend at their computer and online, with the perceived” (and resented) time spent in online learning. This study uses investigates the recognition and application of factors affecting student perception of time spent in studying and learning online. It also compares the effectiveness of these factors when applied to distance education based wholly online classes, and face-to-face classes with an online component.<br />Some of the factors were measurably successful in reducing students’<br />perceptions of time “wasted” online, while others produced considerable<br />insight into face-to-face students perceptions of time used in study. The<br />factors included much greater focus on the person who was a student and<br />their expectations and time/life experiences while learning; the support and<br />use of alternative technologies such as mobile phones as learning and<br />communication too; a higher level of administrative and academic technical<br />support for the students; convergence of delivery methods; and strategic<br />involvement of teaching staff in design and delivery of learner management<br />systems.<br />