Most of my research over the past twenty years has been about the student experience in higher education. How this experience has changed during this time! My work with adult students 'returning to learning' in the 1980s centred on adjustment to the role of learner again - while also engaged as an employee, parent, spouse, and other adult roles. The complex role set that used to be unique to students outside the traditional age group of 18-22 year olds is now the norm. To work and study is common. Participation of students outside the traditional age range is common as well.
A new type of adjustment is required for students in higher education; at least those involved in distance or 'blended' learning environments. This adjustment has to do with participating in learning activities physically separate from the instructor and other students. For more about how this adjustment transpires, see
Tales from virtual classrooms abound! Students are finding new freedom from travel and timetables as they engage in learning activities from almost anywhere, almost anytime. The conveniences afforded by distance and online learning does not, however, make studying easy. All the role strain, role conflict, time demands and other challenges of learning and studying still exist. All the challenges of reading, assignment, papers, exams and achieving grades to graduate are still present. Add to this the adjustment to the role of virtual learner and some students are reporting stresses as great as or greater than ever before.
The stories are thought provoking and inspirational. Stayed tuned for tales from the virtual classroom – and share yours!
