Addressing the Needs of Diverse Distributed Students

Y

24

Student Needs; Special Needs Students; Student Diversity; Best Practices; Online Surveys; Focus Groups; Interviews; Delivery Systems; Postsecondary Education; Foreign Countries; Electronic Learning; Distance Education; Change Strategies; Knowledge Management; Policy Analysis; Needs Assessment; Administrator Attitudes; Teacher Attitudes; Student Attitudes; Employee Attitudes; Academic Support Services; Developmental Studies Programs

1492-3831

Two interrelated studies were undertaken to assist Alberta post-secondary institutions with meeting challenges associated with providing services to diverse distributed students that are of similar quality to services provided to traditional classroom students. The first study identified and assessed best practices in distributed learning; the second refined the focus to students who were identified as members of diverse sub-groups. Research activities for the studies included: a comprehensive literature review of best practice in distributed service delivery; an online survey for students enrolled in distributed learning through eight colleges and technical institutes; staff and student focus groups; and interviews with students, front-line staff, senior post-secondary administrators, and representatives from provincial government and community organizations. Findings highlight impressions and experiences in relation to best practice criteria for service delivery in distributed learning, along with "best practices behind the best practices" that facilitate the adoption and improvement of distributed service delivery.

As Provided

18

2014

EJ1017474