Experiences of University Students’ Distance Education Process

Abstract

Distance education has indeed seen widespread adoption, especially after the COVID-19 outbreak and in response to natural disasters like earthquakes. The aim of this study is to contribute, especially in the field of distance education, by revealing the views of university students. The qualitative research method of phenomenological research design was used in the study. The sample group consists of 15 (9 female, 6 male) undergraduate university students. A maximum diversity sampling method was used in purposeful sampling to establish the study sample. The data was collected through individual interviews with 15 students using a semi-structured interview form created by the researchers. The data were analysed using MAXQDA. As a result of the content analysis, the following main themes were identified: "aims regarding university education", "factors affecting academic motivation", "similarities and differences between distance education and face to face education","experienced difficulties regarding the distance education process" and "recommendations for increasing the efficiency of distance education". Based on the research findings, it is thought that determining the positive and negative aspects of the distance education process will contribute to distance education applications. The results of the study can be evaluated by lecturers, researchers, and practitioners.