What Works in Distance Learning: Early Indicators from an Evaluation of REMOTE, an Online Master's Degree Program for Micronesia and American Samoa

Abstract

Pacific Resources for Education and Learning (PREL) and the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa (UHM) are implementing a distance learning master’s level course in Educational Foundations with a specialty in evaluation intended for residents of the Pacific region. Results from evaluation of the first four REMOTE courses are described in this paper. Results indicated participants were satisfied with several aspects of the program yet provided information on areas that could be improved. The evaluation results argue for a better understanding of how to ensure adequate amounts of learning time, improve the technology typically available for distance learning, and reduce the isolation often experienced by students in distance learning contexts. The evaluation results also point toward some strategies that may strengthen the probability of successful distance learning experiences.