A comparison of wool courses offered by two universities in New Zealand : SOCI 612 Special Topic in Education : Masters Degree in Applied Science, Lincoln University

Abstract

A comparison of the learning experiences of students studying wool classification at two universities (by internal and extramural modes) was carried out. Students enrolled in Certificate in Wool programmes at Lincoln University (internal) and Massey University (internal and extramural) in 1992 were surveyed by postal questionnaire. The respondents answered questions relating to their motivation, expectations and experience of the respective courses, in the form of numbered answer format questions, open-ended questions and contingency questions.

The main findings were that similar factors assist and restrict the learning of internal and extramural students. Between the two modes the quality (internal) of the face-to-face contact was deficient, while the quantity was deficient for the extramural students who felt isolated from the university and their classmates.

The change in 'home' environment was the main disturbing factor for both groups, again manifested differently. The internal students had to adjust to leaving home and becoming students, while the extramural students had to adjust their home life commitments to complete their study requirements.

The results of this study suggest that there are similarities between extramural and internal students in the experience of studying wool classification.