Mandatory internet access: a student centred approach to policy implementation

Liz Smith, Manager, Learning Skills, Division of Student Services, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Email: elsmith@csu.edu.au

Leslie Burr, Deputy Director, Division of Student Services, Charles Sturt University, Albury, Email: lburr@csu.edu.au

Keywords

University, internet access, mandatory, policy, equity, distance education, at risk, student experience

Abstract

Historically, access to the internet has been seen as a barrier to equitable participation in higher education, particularly for distance education students. Research conducted at Charles Sturt University (CSU) has demonstrated that a willingness of a student to gain online access outweighs traditional demographic disadvantages.

In 2005, CSU introduced a policy of minimum online access for commencing students. This policy is the result of more than five years of planning, development and evaluation, and follows research that indicates, contrary to popular assumptions, students will overcome hurdles to internet access given the appropriate study based incentives (Burr & Smith, 2003b).[HREF 4]

The successful implementation of the minimum internet access policy is significant for several reasons. Firstly, CSU is a large regionally based, multi campus distance education provider with a diverse student population representative of all Department of Education, Science and Training (DEST) equity cohorts. Traditionally it is these groups that experience the greatest barriers to online access. Secondly, CSU is committed to a positive Student Experience. Perhaps uniquely in a large enterprise system, this policy development and implementation was characterised by a bottom up, student centred and student driven approach to meet organisational objectives.

This paper presents an important case study for any organisation involved in the delivery of online education and support. The results of this policy implementation are applicable across a broad spectrum of educational settings. Specifically, the paper reports on the development and implementation of a minimum internet access policy and outlines strategies put in place to support students, to identify those ‘at risk’, and to ensure a positive student experience in relation to online use