Experiences of Online and In-Person Learning: A Case Study of Doctoral Education

Marvell, Alan D ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8363-0793 and Livesey, Louise ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4571-8676 (2025) Experiences of Online and In-Person Learning: A Case Study of Doctoral Education. Social Sciences, 14 (11). pp. 1-21. doi:10.3390/socsci14110660

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Abstract

Teaching in a globalised world offers opportunities to reduce barriers, enhance understanding, and expand access for diverse learners. Blended approaches, combining in-person and online delivery, can encourage learning communities across geographical boundaries. However, disparities in access to technology, internet reliability, and conducive study environments highlight inequalities and varied learner experiences. While digital networks may support identity and belonging, some students report feeling distracted or disengaged in online settings. This study explores the experiences of first-year doctoral candidates completing the final taught module of their Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA) at the University of Gloucestershire, UK. Participants, mostly international students now based in the UK, are engaged in both in-person classes and online staff-led webinars. Data was gathered through four in-person focus groups. Engeström’s Cultural-Historical Activity Theory was applied as an analytical framework, conceptualising teaching and learning as an activity system mediated by Tools, Rules, Community, and Division of Labour. This enabled a comparison of students’ experiences in online and in-person contexts. The findings revealed contradictions within the system, identifying barriers to engagement and adaptation, and offering insights into the evolving pedagogical demands of blended doctoral education.

Item Type:	Article
Article Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Accepted 4 November 2025 MDPI do not use page numbers but 21 pages in total
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Online learning; In-person learning; Blended learning; Activity theory; Pedagogy; Doctoral education; Doctorate in Business Administration (DBA)
Related URLs:	Publisher
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > HF Commerce > HF5001 Business
Divisions:	Schools and Research Institutes > School of Business, Computing and Social Sciences
Depositing User:	Alan Marvell
Date Deposited:	12 Nov 2025 11:17
Last Modified:	12 Nov 2025 11:30
URI:	https://eprints.glos.ac.uk/id/eprint/15527

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