The Learning Styles, Expectations, and Needs of Online Students

Abstract. Each student comes to class with certain learning experiences, expectations, and needs that have to be addressed, and to which instructors need to be sensitive, to maximize the students' learning experiences. However, because of the unknown make-up of online classes, the characteristics of online students may be unclear, making it difficult to develop effective online courses. This study sought to establish learning styles, expectations, and needs of students taking an online course. Data were collected from a variety of student communications and the Myers-Briggs Type Inventory. Suggestions to accommodate identified learning styles, needs, and expectations of online students are presented.