Perceptions of Students and an Application about the Use of Distance Education Method in Graphic Design Course: Gazi University Case

This study investigated the perceptions of students, about the use distance education method in graphic design education at universities. Student perceptions are investigated in terms of three factors on Technology Acceptance Model: effects of the use of this technology on their motivation, the perceived usefulness and the perceived ease of use of this technology. In this study, Adobe Connect virtual classroom tool was used to create a synchronous virtual classroom. 65 students got involved in lessons offered via Adobe Connect. In these lessons, students attended lessons 2-hour a week in four weeks period. 51 students attended the questionnaire. In this study, quantitative research methodology is used for data collection and analysis. Quantitative data was gathered by using questionnaire that was developed by Turşak. The findings of the study showed that students stated that synchronous virtual classroom environment is useful and easy to use since it provides learning anywhere and anytime with low cost, increases motivation and allows using multimedia learning materials. As a result, it is though that using distance education methods in graphic design departments will be effective in terms of improving of traditional education and making widespread of synchronous technologies. In this context, suggestions are proposed for further researches and practitioners