Experiences of learning and support in online courses in open university studies

Studying online has increased in recent decades. In this study, we investigated 1) how adult students experience their learning through online courses, and 2) the support and guidance they receive in an online course? The data were collected through an electronic questionnaire with 182 respondents and analyzed qualitatively using thematic analysis. The findings highlight the importance of interaction with peers and instructors, which, according to the respondents, leads to a profound and broad understanding of the subject being studied. The findings also show that instructional and peer supports for online courses were felt to facilitate studying when easily accessible. However, some adult and experienced students felt that they did not need much instructional support and guidance or peer support. In the future, it will be important to take into account the diversity of the open university student population and their different needs.