“ But they won ’ t come to lectures ... ” The impact of audio recorded lectures on student experience and attendance

The move to increasingly flexible platforms for student learning and experience through provision of online lecture recordings is often interpreted by educators as students viewing attendance at lectures as optional. The trend toward the use of this technology is often met with resistance from some academic staff who argue that student attendance will decline. This study aimed to explore students’ use of online lectures and to measure the impact of them on student attendance at lectures. A pre and post evaluation methodology was undertaken using a self administered questionnaire that gathered both quantitative and qualitative data. Overall attendance was recorded at each lecture throughout the semester. Results indicated that attendance remained high throughout the semester and while only a minority of students used the recordings, those who did found them to be helpful. Most students used them to either supplement their learning or to make up for a lecture that they had not been able to attend. This study provides evidence that contrary to popular belief, Generation Y students in general, do not aspire to replace lectures with downloadable, online versions. Many of the students in this study valued the opportunity for interactive learning provided by face to face teaching. Finally, a model that outlines the attributes that contribute to quality teaching is used to describe how this technology can contribute to positive student experiences and can enhance reflective teaching practice.