Abstract:

New technologies have facilitated access to distance learning courses remarkably, to the extent that the number of courses imparted in this way has multiplied over the last decade. However, at the same time a more than desirable number of distance learning courses fail in their early editions. Even the courses that have been running for some time suffer the loss of a considerable percentage of students, who decide not to complete their studies.

This research, carried out on the basis of teaching experience on an e-learning diploma course on financial reporting imparted by the University of Valencia (Spain) analyses the factors that could minimise the number of students who abandon distance learning courses before completing their studies.

More specifically, this paper provides some keys to course success and student satisfaction in terms of materials, planning and organisation and telematic resources. Finally, we highlight the figure of the coordinator and the virtual relationships between educators and students that are so complex, but also so necessary in e-learning.

Keywords:

On-line courses, factors to success, human factor.