The use of libraries by postgraduate distance learning students: a mismatch of expectations

Click to increase image sizeClick to decrease image size

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Kate Stephens

This paper, the first of a two‐part study by Kate Stephens, Lorna Unwin and Neil Bolton of the Division of Education, University of Sheffield, UK, reports some of the findings of a survey of UK postgraduate distance learning students’ use of libraries. Among the key findings is the influence of course providers’ expectations in determining library use. Alongside this is noted the students’ perception that course providers frequently underestimate the need for library use that their courses entail. The research shows that the impact of distance learning expansion is being felt by libraries other than those of the host institution, and also that students are making considerable use of public libraries, despite criticism about their adequacy