Student Perceptions of Distance Education in a Career and Technical Teacher Education Program

Overview & Synopsis

The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of students enrolled in a Career and Technical teacher education program through distance delivery with respect to effectiveness of delivery methods and negative aspects associated with participating in distance education courses. The study was also designed to determine the preferred delivery methods of distance education. The majority of this group was female and was under 30 years of age. Within this group of participants, distance education holds positive aspects but does not appear to be the delivery method of choice. Congruent with previous research, (Kassop, 2003; Kumrow, 2007), this group of students held a high perception of the effectiveness of distance delivered courses. However, the inability to effectively add to class discussions and the difficulties associated with learning more independently than what was experienced in traditional courses appeared to be the greatest negative perceptions concerning distance courses. (Contains 5 tables.)