Distance learner colloquium: exploring the enigma

Abstract

This Colloquium will provide an opportunity for participants to explore largely unchartered territory. It offers valuable insights into the real-life challenges facing first-time distance learners and the difficulties for tertiary institutions in meeting students' needs in today's digitally connected and socially wired world. The Colloquium is framed in the wider context of growing concerns about attrition and completion rates of distance learners and is informed by a joint Massey University and Charles Sturt University research project designed to investigate the experiences of first-time distance learners from their own perspectives. It will be hosted by the project leader, Professor Mark Brown who has 20 years of leadership experience in distance education.