Abstract

Objectives
The purpose of this review was to clarify the concept of trace students, undertaking a concept analysis to define this emerging group of online students.

Design
A concept analysis was conducted using Walker and Avant’s framework to enable concept clarification.

Data Sources
Database searches were undertaken: CINAHL Ultimate, PsycINFO, ERIC, MEDLINE and EBSCOhost. Inclusion criteria limited results to peer reviewed papers written in English with full text availability from 2015.

Review Methods
A concept analysis was used to define and identify key characteristics of trace students, a subgroup of learners emerging within the online distance learning student body.

Results
The defining attributes of trace students included lone study, no tutor or peer interaction and successful completion of course assessments. A high level of self-efficacy and motivation is assumed.

Conclusions
This concept analysis provides a definition of trace students within the postgraduate online learning community. This definition informs development of inclusive online learning environments encouraging curriculum developers to expand the academic landscape to include those with a preference for solitary learning.