This article outlines the methods and findings of research designed to investigate the ways in which distance learners balance the demands of their courses with the pressures of work and family life. In particular, the research aimed to reveal ways in which such students organise their study and integrate course requirements with other competing and continuing commitments. The principal instrument used in the research was a diary, which students were required to maintain for a period of one week. In addition, a small number of students took part in semi-structured interviews.[Copyright of Distance Education is the property of Routledge. Full article may be available at the publisher's website: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0158791980190106]
