An Interesting Profile-University Students who Take Distance Education Courses Show Weaker Motivation Than On-Campus Students

Abstract

Four models of descriptive characteristics (Demographic, Experiential, Motivational, Inhibitory) were examined using discriminant function analysis for Distance Education (DE) and On-campus students. Of 240 targeted students (120 DE and 120 On-Campus), 174 responded to a questionnaire identifying characteristics of students who enroll in DE. Using a Demographic model only 61.5% of the sample was correctly classified. Higher classification rates were obtained with an Experiential model (73.6%), a Motivational model (72.3%), and an Inhibitory model (83.9%). Significant mean differences (univariate analyses) between the two groups allowed for the construction of a profile of students who opt for DE. They are more mature, more experienced, and more likely facing barriers (situational, institutional and personal) on the one hand (predictable relationships), but less motivated on the other hand (a totally unexpected relationship). Future research directions are suggested.

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