ISTE | JRTE: Volume 33 Number 3 Spring 2001

	Edited by Dr. David J. Ayersman, Mary Washington College, and Dr. W. Michael Reed, New York University
formerly Journal of Research on Computing in Education

JRCE,Volume 33, Number 3, Spring 2001

Receptivity to Distance Learning: The Effect of Technology, Reputation, Constraints, and Learning Preferences

Edward W. Christensen
Monmouth University

Uzoamaka P. Anakwe and Eric H. Kessler
Pace University

Abstract

Recent growth in distance learning (DL) represents a significant change to management education. Notwithstanding its importance, research on DL is at an early stage of development, particularly in understanding the effect of technology perceptions on students’ receptivity toward DL. This study of 399 students at two universities investigates the role of perceived technology usefulness, technological familiarity and accessibility, reputation, constraints, learning preferences, and demographic factors on prospective receptivity toward DL. The results reveal significant relationships between many of these variables and DL receptivity, suggesting new challenges and opportunities for educators. They also indicate that some traditionally held assumptions, for example those regarding accessibility, reputation, and constraints, may not be valid in the new high-tech DL environment. Implications of the findings are discussed.

Web Resources

Distance Education at a Glance. Guide #10 [Online document]. (1995). Moscow: University of Idaho, Engineering Outreach. Available: www.uidaho.edu/evo/dist10.html.

B. Gellman-Danley & M. J. Fetzner. (1998). Asking the really tough questions: Policy issues for distance learning. Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration [Online serial], 1(1). Available: www.westga.edu/~distance/danley11.html.

T. L. Russell. (1999). The "No Significant Difference" phenomenon. Raleigh: North Carolina University. Available: http://nova.teleeducation.nb.ca/nosignificantdifference/.

M. Turoff. (1998). Alternative futures for distance learning: The force and the darkside [Online document]. Available: www.westga.edu/~distance/turoff11.html.

Contributors

Edward W. Christensen (PhD, Rutgers University) is an assistant professor of management at the School of Business Administration, Monmouth University, West Long Branch, New Jersey. His current research interests lie in the uses and effects of information technologies on business processes, especially the Internet.

Uzoamaka P. Anakwe (PhD, Drexel University) is an assistant professor of management at the Lubin School of Business, Pace University. Her current research interests encompass information technology implementation, conflict management, distance learning, institutionalized career development practices, and knowledge management within a multicultural context.

Eric H. Kessler (PhD, Rutgers University) is an assistant professor of management at the Lubin School of Business, Pace University. His research interests lie in the area of decision making in organizations, particularly as applied to managing innovation and technology.

Address: Edward W. Christensen, Department of Management/Marketing, School of Business Administration, Monmouth University, West Long Branch, NJ, 07764; echriste@monmouth.edu.

Download the full article (PDF, 111 KB, PDF Instructions)