An Investigation of the Support Needs of Online Master's Students: Thinking Outside the "One-Size-Fits-All" Box

• In Event: Online Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session 3

Abstract

This mixed method study investigated first- and second-year online master’s students’ perceptions of the importance of and satisfaction with administrative, academic, technical, and online community supports; characteristics; technology and study skills; as well as differences in these areas based on student demographics. Survey findings demonstrated that most students rated instructor, embedded course, and library supports with high importance and satisfaction, in contrast to supports that were needed by a few students or on rare occasions (e.g., international student services). Survey analyses also revealed some differences based on student demographics (i.e., Non-White/White students). Analyses of interview data indicated that students preferred their supports to be made available in multifaceted ways to best meet their needs as busy online graduate students.

Authors

• Natalie B. Milman, The George Washington University

• Laurie Posey, The George Washington University

• Christine Pintz, The George Washington University

• Pearl Zhou, The George Washington University