Business Student Perceptions of Online Learning: Using Focus Groups for Richer Understanding of Student Perspectives

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to develop a deeper understanding of student perceptions, expectations, and opinions about online learning at the program level. Student evaluations of teaching are generally focused upon a single course and instructor and therefore do not address students’ general perceptions of online learning and the effectiveness of various elements specific to the online course environment. Faculty worked with a professional focus-group moderator to develop and conduct the focus groups, which involved 11 undergraduate students experienced with online learning. Using a qualitative process, we discovered some common themes that cut across courses in an online program, as well as some new avenues for consideration. These include the conveniences of learning in online courses, the need for consistency in course design across an online program, better use of certain time management tools, the importance of faculty presence, and students’ perceptions of certain activities as “busy work.”

KEYWORDS:

• Online education
• focus groups
• student feedback
• evaluations
• qualitative research

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Justin D. Cochran

Justin D. Cochran is an Assistant Professor of Information Systems and Online BBA Director in the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University. His research interests include information systems agility, distance learning, and social media. He can be reached at [email protected].

Hope M. Baker

Hope M. Baker is Professor of Decision Sciences and Associate Dean of Assessment and Undergraduate Programs in the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University. Her research interests include applications of decision analysis models to public sector applications and the scholarship of teaching. She can be reached at [email protected].

Debbie Benson

Debbie Benson is a Certified Public Accountant, Certified Internal Auditor, and Chartered Global Management Accountant. She joined the Kennesaw State University faculty 10 years ago, after 20 years as a finance professional in a variety of corporate settings. She can be reached at [email protected].

Wes Rhea

Wes Rhea is a Senior Lecturer of Information Systems at Kennesaw State University. Wes has professional experience in the telecommunications, financial, and healthcare industries while holding executive level positions as a Vice-President, Corporate Compliance Officer and Chief Information Officer. He can be reached at [email protected].