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3 February 2006

Flexible learning is attractive but cost is main factor for learners

Young people have a poor awareness of the flexible learning modes available in higher education, according to a study commissioned by HEFCE on 'Demand for flexible and innovative types of higher education'.

The report, by consultants SQW Ltd and Taylor Nelson Sofres, reveals that young people are generally unaware of the flexibility in learning pace and the different types of learning modes available at some higher education institutions.

Young people in 12 focus groups said flexible learning could be attractive if they were deciding to enter into higher education, but that the most significant factors affecting their decision were financial.

The focus groups, drawn from Year 12 pupils, students and those in full-time employment (with and without a first degree), were sceptical as to whether a slower pace of learning over a longer period of study was a sensible investment.

They were being asked to respond to two non-traditional models of teaching and learning: modular systems allowing students to extend their studies over longer periods; and accelerated degrees lasting two years rather than three.

The models had been developed after the consultants visited 10 wide-ranging higher education institutions to investigate non-traditional delivery of teaching and learning.