Russians' attitude to distance learning: A Runet survey

Abstract

The objective of this work is to study the Russians' attitude to distance learning based on contemporary information and communication technologies. The methodological basis of the research is the use of analytical services of the Internet for studying the Russians' online activity. As an empirical basis, the work employs two Internet studies conducted by the authors in 2018 and 2019, and it analyzes the interest of the Runet [Russian network] users in the online form of knowledge acquisition. In recent years, the growth of interest in distance learning has been noted with individual seasonal drops. There is a trend to get higher education with state-recognized degrees and formally awarded qualifications. In Russia, schoolchildren of grades 10-11 extensively use online social networks to improve the efficiency of training in mathematics. They prefer Internet communities adhering to the traditional teaching principles. A combination of educational and entertaining content attracts a larger quantity of users. The results of the research are of interest for specialists dealing with the problems of distance learning and sociology of education.