The strategies used by distance education students when learning basic chemistry; implications for electronic delivery

Abstract

The already developed learning profiles of distance education students could be a determining factor in whether or not electronic forms of instruction will be successful. Several groups of distance education chemistry students were interviewed to discover the strategies they use when studying from their present printed material. A number of strategies were identified and grouped into two major categories and several subcategories, depending on the content of the material being studied and time available for study. It was found that the students used a cognitive linear style of learning, using three distinct types of learning strategies revolving around the core strategy of taking, summarising and rewriting of notes. They then used a separate, but similar, set of strategies to validate their knowledge. A computer based learning program would have some advantages over print, but would need to support the present style of learning adopted by the students. Suggestions are made for an integrated program that may encourage students to adopt alternative strategies. [Chem. Educ. Res. Pract., 2005, 6 (3), 150-165]