| The purpose of this study is to determine what nontraditional medical science students perceived to benefit or hinder their online learning experience. The Web-Based Learning Environment Instrument (WEBLEI) adapted for this study was developed by Vanessa Chang and Darrell Fisher. The WEBLEI contained 32 quantitative questions measured on a Likert scale and four open-ended qualitative questions. The result of 117 survey participants suggests the importance of efficiency in the design of online courses. Any aspect of the learning experience that did not add to their learning was considered a hindrance, ineffective, and met with resistance. The study results indicated that time constraints of nontraditional online learners should be taken into consideration by instructional designers when developing course material. Courses should be designed to utilize the students' time in a self-directed way to increase the positive impact of the class and enhance the learning experience. |
