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Exploring demographic influences on learner satisfaction in open education platforms: a case study from Guangdong Open University.

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Title: Exploring demographic influences on learner satisfaction in open education platforms: a case study from Guangdong Open University.
Authors: Fu, Long1 (AUTHOR), Dai, Yi2 (AUTHOR) yidai@cityu.edu.mo, Woods, David3 (AUTHOR), Song, Bo4 (AUTHOR), Zhang, Ming5 (AUTHOR)
Source: Interactive Learning Environments. Oct2025, Vol. 33 Issue 8, p4845-4873. 29p.
Subjects: Online education, Open universities, Sociocultural factors, Mixed methods research, Gender differences (Sociology), Teaching methods, Digital technology, Student engagement
Abstract: Open education platforms are increasingly integral to modern learning environments. However, understanding how demographic indicators affect learner satisfaction on these platforms remains underexplored, particularly in the context of Guangdong Open University (GDOU). This research aims to evaluate how demographic characteristics impact GDOU learners' satisfaction, and identify effective strategies to enhance learner satisfaction. Using a mixed-methods approach, a quantitative survey of 6,294 learners and in-depth qualitative feedback from 589 participants was conducted. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data were coded to uncover recurring themes. The study uncovers novel insights into how factors such as age, income, occupation, and device usage impact learner satisfaction. Notably, younger learners and those using mobile devices exhibited lower satisfaction. Gender differences were minimal overall, but female learners showed higher satisfaction with specific platform functions. The findings highlight the need for tailored support strategies, including optimized mobile experiences and shorter instructional videos, to address the diverse needs of learners. This study contributes a new understanding of the field of open education by linking demographic characteristics with satisfaction and proposing actionable recommendations for improving learner engagement and support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Open education platforms are increasingly integral to modern learning environments. However, understanding how demographic indicators affect learner satisfaction on these platforms remains underexplored, particularly in the context of Guangdong Open University (GDOU). This research aims to evaluate how demographic characteristics impact GDOU learners' satisfaction, and identify effective strategies to enhance learner satisfaction. Using a mixed-methods approach, a quantitative survey of 6,294 learners and in-depth qualitative feedback from 589 participants was conducted. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze quantitative data, while qualitative data were coded to uncover recurring themes. The study uncovers novel insights into how factors such as age, income, occupation, and device usage impact learner satisfaction. Notably, younger learners and those using mobile devices exhibited lower satisfaction. Gender differences were minimal overall, but female learners showed higher satisfaction with specific platform functions. The findings highlight the need for tailored support strategies, including optimized mobile experiences and shorter instructional videos, to address the diverse needs of learners. This study contributes a new understanding of the field of open education by linking demographic characteristics with satisfaction and proposing actionable recommendations for improving learner engagement and support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:10494820
DOI:10.1080/10494820.2025.2472281