Conceptions of learning in adult students embarking on distance education |
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Authors: | Mpine Makoe John T E Richardson Linda Price |
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Institution: | (1) Institute of Educational Technology, The Open University, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, MK7 6AA, UK |
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Abstract: | A 60-item questionnaire on conceptions of learning was mailed to students taking preparatory courses by distance learning
with The Open University in the United Kingdom. Complete data were provided by 372 respondents. Their scores on six factor-based
scales showed satisfactory internal consistency, cluster analysis identified five groups of students with distinct patterns
of scores, and discriminant analysis identified the scales that served to distinguish among the clusters. Three groups had
conceptions of learning based on critical thinking, personal development, and personal change, but the other groups had conceptions
that were defined in largely negative terms. Adult learners embarking on distance education seem to hold distinctive conceptions
of learning, which suggests that conceptions of learning are culturally and contextually dependent. |
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Keywords: | Adult students Conceptions of learning Critical thinking Distance education Personal change Personal development |
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