Student Usage And Perceptions Of The Value Of Recorded Lectures In A Traditional Face-To-Face (F2F) Class

Abstract

More than ever before, today’s colleges and universities are employing innovative and mutually-beneficial ways to meet the needs of students. Due to increasing competition and changing demographics, institutions benefit from attracting more students as higher enrollments generate greater revenue; these additional tuition and fees are crucial as costs continue to rise and state funding declines. Alternative course delivery modalities provide flexibility that can enable more students to obtain access to a postsecondary education as well as appeal to those with different learning styles or who are looking for a less traditional college experience. In recent years, online programs have grown significantly when compared to the traditional face-to-face (F2F) environment. While both deliveries have their own advantages and thus supporters, each has its own disadvantages as well. As a result, blended or hybrid classes, which include features of both F2F and distance courses, are becoming more common. This article describes a study in which two sections of an F2F tax course offered students access to recorded lectures, and reports the results of a survey designed to ascertain student usage and perceptions of the value of this supplemental material.