Enhancing Accessibility and Resilience in Distance Education: Insights from Higher Education

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly transformed higher education, accelerating the shift to distance education and making it an increasingly attractive option for students worldwide. As universities adapt to this evolving educational landscape, understanding why students choose distance education, their preferred teaching methods, and the challenges they face is fundamental. This study examines these factors among students at a small university in Iceland, offering insights into how institutions can enhance the accessibility and resilience of distance education. An online survey conducted in 2024 gathered data on students’ academic needs, engagement with course materials, and perceptions of assessment methods and digital learning environments. The findings highlight the vital role of flexibility, particularly for students balancing work and family responsibilities. Female students emphasized time management as a key reason for choosing distance education. While the learning management system and recorded lectures were well-received, students identified technological improvements, particularly in lecture audio and video quality, as areas for enhancement. Students expressed a strong preference for continuous assessment over traditional exams, advocating for assignments that reflect real-world problems. Additionally, concerns were raised about mandatory in-person attendance requirements. These insights emphasize the need for universities to continuously refine their teaching methods, digital tools, and support systems to ensure that distance education remains inclusive, effective, and adaptable to students’ diverse needs.