Satisfaction with Distance Learning: an Analysis through Graduates at UFSM

This study analyzed how pleased graduate students are in courses offered by Open University of Brazil, Santa Maria University (UFSM). Methodologically, we applied descriptive statistics, factor analysis and regression in a sample of 712 graduates. Results showed that graduates are satisfied with the chosen course and indicated that the main determinant is related to the quality of teaching. Conversely, satisfaction was lower for non-white graduates, which included cultural and social issues related to black ethnicity, and for those who, at some point during the course, thought about dropping out. It is expected that the knowledge of the determinants of graduates’ (dis)satisfaction may contribute to the settlement of strategies that aim to increase students’ satisfaction and the retention levels. Keywords: Distance learning. Degree of student satisfaction. Graduates. Higher education.