Nontraditional Students' Perceptions of Online Course Quality

• In Event: Online Teaching and Learning SIG Paper Session 1

Abstract

This study analyzes non-traditional students’ perceptions of online course quality. Students were categorized into three groups: traditional, moderately non-traditional, and highly non-traditional. Participants completed an online survey to assess their perceptions of online course quality (based on the Quality Matters standards). A total of 3,160 students enrolled in at least one online course participated in this study. Analyses revealed that both traditional and non-traditional students rated Standard 3 (Assessment and Measurement) highest, with no significant differences between the groups. With the exception of Standard 8 (Accessibility), all other standards (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, and 7) were rated higher by non-traditional students as compared to traditional students. The findings suggest that non-traditional students have different perceptions of online course quality.

Authors

• Emily J. Hixon, Purdue University - Calumet

• Casimir Barczyk, Purdue University Calumet

• Penny Ralston-Berg

• Janet Buckenmeyer, Armstrong State University