Success of distance learning graduates and the role of intrinsic motivation

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.

KEYWORDS:

• Appreciative inquiry
• retention
• support
• flexibility
• intrinsic motivation

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank the students who partook of the interviews along with the Open University for funding the project. We would also like to thank Sally Ogut, Lesley Holland and Helen Evans for their support in data collection.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Joan Simons

Joan Simons, EdD, PFHEA, is an Associate Dean for Teaching Excellence in the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies at The Open University. Her teaching areas include Leadership and Management in Health and Social Care and her research interests include exploring ways to enhance the experience of students studying through distance learning.

Stephen Leverett

Stephen Leverett, EdD, is a Lecturer (Children & Young People) in the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies at The Open University. He has a Professional Doctorate (Education) and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Kythe Beaumont

Kythe Beaumont is a retired Senior Lecturer in the School of Health Wellbeing and Social Care in the Faculty of Wellbeing, Education and Language Studies at The Open University. Her main teaching interests are Health and Social Care and her research interests focus largely on teaching and learning at a distance.