This full research paper studies the significance of self-directed learning (SDL) in distance education. A literature review revealed many characteristics related to SDL that are important to success in distance education. The self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) levels of 124 students were gathered for this research, and the results were compared between contact and distance learners. The effect of gender on SDLR and the relationship between SDLR and preference for distance education were examined. There was no statistical difference in SDLR levels between women and men but indicators of self-directed learners’ preferences for distance learning were found. In addition, the SDLR scale scores between students’ degree levels were compared. The results support the notion that SDLR is related to maturity.

This Research to Practice Full Paper presents a comparison between a physical device and a simulator in a distance learning context. Programming embedded devices is very commonly taught using embedded hardware. One of the most used solutions is the Arduino microcontroller platform, which allows small embedded applications to be built and commanded in a programming language. However, there are some challenges in using physical devices for educational purposes. These challenges are particularly acute in distance learning or when the course needs to be scalable to a varying number of students. To address these challenges, we explored the potential of a simulator as a replacement for a physical device. We implemented the course using both the physical device and the simulator and collected student and lecturer feedback and experiences. The results showed that the physical device is somewhat more concrete and motivating, but the simulator is also very well suited for the purpose. The technical solution did not seem to have an impact on course completion or workload. There are also some advantages of using a simulator over a physical device, such as the possibility to test electronic connections without fear of breaking down the equipment

This paper describes the mapping of self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) for adult students applying for a master’s degree program delivered entirely as distanced learning. Since SDLR is strongly linked to both adult learning and online education, developing of self-directed learning (SDL) skills should be taken into consideration in our degree program. Making future students aware of SDLR is the first stage in introducing self-directed learning methods and practices in learning environments. The easiest way to do this is to have students answer an SDLR self-assessment questionnaire and give them feedback regarding their SDLR level. This paper presents how this is realized and provides the preliminary results of the study and the applicants’ SDLR score distributions. The results indicate high SDLR among all applicants.

This study examines the development of the education model created in connection with the Master Studies in Mathematical Information Technology. The model has developed from the first stage, where there was only face-to-face teaching supported with Learning Management System, to a stage where studying is possible also fully in online and students may choose themselves how much to take advantage of technology in their studies. The examination of the development of the education model is made from the viewpoints of accessibility, increased role of technology and interaction. In earlier studies, the education model has been evaluated for example from the viewpoints of changes in the participation rate and learning results, and the results have been positive. These viewpoints, in addition to describing the development path, will be highlighted in this study.

Education providers aim to meet today's education requirements by employing, among other things, education technology solutions that increase flexibility. This has also happened with the master's level mathematical information technology degree directed to adults. In the degree program, lecture videos brought in together with face-to-face teaching provide good opportunities for flexible educational arrangements. Education with the help of videos can be arranged in such a way that students themselves will be able to choose their study mode in accordance with their needs. When students themselves can choose their study modes, many different ways to take advantage of the flexibility provided are created. It seems that students with different participation styles achieve the aims for their study progress in different ways. The purpose of this paper is to profile students with different study modes, the profiling being based on a structured questionnaire. In this way we try to find out what are the factors that affect the study mode. Our investigation focuses on both the effect of internal factors, such as motivation, and the effect of external factors, such as distance and time limitations, in the choice of a study method.