Using web-based lecture technologies: advice from students

Web-based lecture technologies (WBLT) have been introduced in many Australian and overseas universities to offer students access to lecture recordings, twenty four hours per day, seven days per week. These technologies have been well received by many students who appreciate them as study tools offering flexibility and convenience. The findings of a recent survey of over 800 students in four Australian universities suggest that, rather than questioning whether or not to introduce these technologies, the focus of academics should be on how to make the best use of them. This paper provides an overview of some of the findings from this survey and collates students’ qualitative responses into advice on how to use WBLT effectively in terms of the structure and content of the lecture; the lecturing process and managing the technical aspects of WBLT.