Table 2 Research questions, themes and examples of participant excerpts
Research question (RQ) | Theme | Illustrative quotes | |
|---|---|---|---|
1 | What are the experiences of online learning and loneliness in OSWD? (Experience) | Self-paced study can reduce stigma but cause loneliness | “Online learning is great as it allows me as someone with a physical disability (wheelchair) to access higher education easily and comfortably … [But] when others are having discussions in the boards and I give my response, it feels like I am intruding and sometimes people will not respond to my posts.” |
2 | How do they make sense of their feelings of loneliness? (Understanding) | Loneliness and social difficulties relate to misunderstanding of disability | “Your disability might mean that you can’t sit for long. It might mean that you can’t read on the screen long. It might mean you can’t take in a whole lot of information quickly. You kind of get nearly left behind, and I think you’re at a greater disadvantage if you have a disability.” |
3 | What would help to reduce loneliness in online learning? (Future support) | Activities, events and staff for informal socialisation are needed | “I’d like small group seminars over Zoom or Skype to discuss ideas. That would help so much with learning and with meeting others on the course … [instead of] just posting your work and reading the reply from your tutor.” |