bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond lecture capture: What teaching staff want from web-based lecture technologies
Authors: Germany Lisa
Published: April 2016

For the past decade, the primary use of recordings in higher education has been to make live lectures available to students for review (lecture capture). However, with the rise of podcasting and the increased focus on interaction as a means to engage students, current web-based lecture technologies (WBLT) are capable of much more than simply recording and distributing a live lecture. This study aimed to discover what teaching staff are currently doing, and what they would like to be doing with WBLT for learning and teaching. Data were drawn from initial focus groups conducted with 10 academic teaching staff at Swinburne University of Technology, as well as an online survey that was distributed to all Swinburne staff with a lecture capture account. Three key requirements for a university-wide WBLT system were identified: flexibility in where and when recordings can be made, flexibility in control over those recordings, and the desire to be able to interact with the recordings and incorporate them as an integral part of the course. These findings indicate that teaching staff want to innovate in their use of recordings and need to be supported to do so through the adoption of an appropriate recording solution.
Does the use of technology make a difference in the geometric cognitive growth of pre-service mathematics teachers?
Authors: Stols Gerrit
Published: April 2016

This study investigated the geometric cognitive growth of pre-service mathematics teachers in terms of the Van Hiele levels in a technology-enriched environment, as opposed to that of students in a learning environment without any technological enhancements. In order to investigate this, a quasi-experimental non-equivalent comparison group design was used. Similar course content was used for both the control and experimental groups. The students worked through a series of geometry activities and problems. The difference between the groups was that dynamic geometry software was integrated into the teaching of the experimental group. The Cognitive Development and Achievement in Secondary School Geometry (CDASSG) Van Hiele geometry test was used to determine all the students' level of geometric thinking before and after the course. The study found that the use of dynamic geometry software enhanced student teachers' geometric visualisation, analysis and deduction, but not their ability to informally justify their reasoning and to understand the formal aspects of deduction.
Pre-service physical education teachers' technological pedagogical content knowledge, technology integration self-efficacy and instructional technology outcome expectations
Authors: Semiz Kivanc , Ince Mustafa Levent
Published: April 2016

The purposes of this study were to (1) identify the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), Technology Integration Self Efficacy (TISE) and Instructional Technology Outcome Expectations (ITOE) of pre-service physical education teachers, (2) examine the relationships among TPACK, TISE and ITOE, and lastly (3) examine the differences between pre-service physical education teachers who perceived and who did not perceive technology integration by their university instructors on TPACK, TISE, and ITOE scores. Findings indicate that while TPACK, TISE and ITOE perceptions of pre-service physical education teachers were at satisfactory levels, university instructors were not good role models in the use of technology in their classrooms. Pre-service teachers reported that integration of physical education and sport-related emerging technologies were almost non-existent in the teaching practices within the university setting. TPACK, TISE, and ITOE were moderately related with each other (p<0.05). Pre-service teachers' self-perceptions of TPACK, TISE, and ITOE were positively influenced by their perception of university instructors' technology integration into teaching in university courses (p<0.05). Providing professional development programs for the teacher education program instructors, both in technology integration in teaching and in emerging physical education and sports-related technologies, is recommended.
Teaching Teachers for the Future (TTF): Building the ICT in education capacity of the next generation of teachers in Australia
Authors: Romeo Geoff , Lloyd Margaret , Downes Toni
Published: April 2016

The Teaching Teachers for the Future (TTF) project is a unique nationally significant project funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Employment, Education and Workplace Relations (DEEWR, Au$8.8 million) and the Information and Communication Technology Innovation Fund (ICTIF). This 2011-2012 project has ambitiously attempted to build the ICT education (ICTE) capacity of the next generation of Australian teachers through its focus on pre-service teachers, teacher educators and the new Australian Curriculum. This paper will provide an overview of the project including a description of its genesis in a changing educational and political landscape, its structure and operations, its grounding in contemporary theory, the research opportunities it has engendered and its tangible outcomes.
Enhancing teachers' ICT capacity for the 21st century learning environment: Three cases of teacher education in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyeonjin , Choi Hyungshin , Han Jeonghye , So Hyo-Jeong
Published: April 2016

Korean teachers are generally considered well trained to integrate ICT into their teaching since the inception of the first IT Master Plan of Korea in 1996. However, the emergence and adoption of cutting-edge technologies create demands for evolving roles and competencies of teachers in the new knowledge society. Given this changing landscape of teacher education, the purpose of this paper is to explore new educational approaches to enhance teachers' ICT capabilities in the 21st century learning environment in Korea. The literature indicates that the new roles of teachers include new media literacy skills and adaptive expertise with efficiency and innovation. From this perspective, we examined three cases: (1) learning Scratch for computational and creative thinking, (2) learning robotics as emerging technology for convergent and divergent thinking, and (3) learning by design with ICT for systems thinking. The new approaches, such as focusing on thinking skills rather than technical skills, and providing various contexts different from ordinary classroom lessons, help teachers to develop adaptive expertise. On the other hand, participants in all three cases indicated difficulties in integrating new ideas, dealing with various course activities, and understanding unfamiliar design contexts in their comprehensive projects. For further studies, it is necessary to investigate learning processes and outcomes of teachers' learning with more depth and a larger number of cases and multiple sources of data to verify the potentials and challenges of these approaches more rigorously.
 
MAGDAIRE: A model to foster pre-service teachers' ability in integrating ICT and teaching in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Chun-Yen , Chien Yu-Ta , Chang Yueh-Hsia , Lin Chen-Yung
Published: April 2016

This report describes our efforts in fostering Taiwanese pre-service teachers' ability to integrate information and communication technology (ICT) and teaching. The current state of science teacher education and ICT policies in Taiwan are documented briefly. The course model, MAGDAIRE (abbreviated from Modeled Analysis, Guided Development, Articulated Implementation, and Reflected Evaluation) is then introduced to counterbalance the insufficiency of the current teacher education courses in Taiwan. The model is subsequently employed to enhance a science teacher education course at National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU). The study conducted along with the course indicates that MAGDAIRE can significantly improve pre-service teachers' ICT knowledge and skills. Moreover, MAGDAIRE can significantly enhance pre-service teachers' sensitivity to the complex interactions between ICT, pedagogy, and subject matter. Some recommendations for employing the proposed model to enhance teacher education courses are discussed.
Examining preservice teachers' perceived knowledge of TPACK and cyberwellness through structural equation modeling
Authors: Chai Ching Sing , Koh Joyce Hwee Ling , Ho Hsin Ning Jessie , Tsai Chin-Chung
Published: April 2016

This study examined outcomes from an information and communication technology (ICT) course designed on the basis of the meaningful learning framework and general cyberwellness issues. It also examined the relationships among Singaporean preservice teachers' perceptions of the constructs pertaining to technological pedagogical content knowledge (TPACK), and their perceived ability to integrate cyberwellness knowledge when designing web-related learning. Two questionnaires were administered to 668 and 628 preservice teachers before and after the ICT course to elicit the relationships. Five TPACK knowledge constructs (PK, CK, Web 2.0-related TK, TPK, TPACK) and the teachers' cyberwellness knowledge were identified from factor analysis results. The pre-post course surveys indicate that the preservice teachers perceived strong gain in 5 out 6 constructs measured. Additionally, the structural equation model analysis revealed that cyberwellness knowledge contributes significantly to TPK and TPACK, based on the preservice teachers' perception. As such, the study argues that the preservice teachers' confidence to integrate their cyberwellness knowledge into their teaching may play an important role in influencing how they plan and design web-based learning. Cyberwellness knowledge may be an important knowledge component to foster when considering the future development of teachers' TPACK for web-based learning.
The limits of programmed professional development on integration of information and communication technology in education
Authors: Peeraer Jef , Van Petegem Peter
Published: April 2016

In the framework of a development cooperation program on quality of education in Vietnam, a professional development trajectory for teacher educators on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in education was developed and implemented over the course of a three-year program. We describe how the framework on Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge inspired the development of the program. In a longitudinal panel study, we followed a group of 1191 teacher educators (the "total accumulated popluation"). We describe the trainees' reaction to training and learning outcomes and we compare the use of ICT by educators who participated in the program with those who did not participate. Data was collected from self-reported questionnaires and focus group interviews. Comparison of the use of ICT for teaching over the course of the program shows that an ICT core group of enthusiasts made significant progress in integrating ICT into teaching practice. Exploratory multiple regression analysis highlights technological pedagogical knowledge and membership of a community of practice as significant factors for improved use of ICT. Nevertheless, the elements of the professional development program explain only 26.2% of variance. We discuss the extent to which programmed professional development can have an effect on integration of ICT in education and reflect on how to make training programs more effective.
The "third"-order barrier for technology-integration instruction: Implications for teacher education
Authors: Tsai Chin-Chung , Chai Ching Sing
Published: April 2016

Technology integration is a major trend in contemporary education practice. When undertaking technology integration in classrooms, a first-order barrier and a second-order barrier, as proposed by Ertmer (1999), can hinder its implementation. The first-order barrier is external, such as lack of adequate access, time, training and institutional support. The second-order barrier includes teachers' personal and fundamental beliefs such as teachers' pedagogical beliefs, technology beliefs, willingness to change. This paper argues that the lack of design thinking by teachers may be the "third"-order barrier for technology integration.
Building the capacity of Indonesian education universities for ICT in pre-service teacher education: A case study of a strategic planning exercise
Authors: Lim Cher Ping , Pannen Paulina
Published: April 2016

This paper documents how four Indonesian teacher education institutions (TEIs) engaged in strategic planning to build their capacity in developing pre-service teachers' ICT in education competencies. These TEIs adopted a holistic approach towards strategic planning by drawing upon the six dimensions of the Capacity Building Toolkit for TEIs in the Asia Pacific. The core dimension is the pre-service teacher education program (curriculum, assessment and practicum) that is driven by the vision and philosophy of a TEI. The program is supported by four other dimensions of professional learning, ICT plan, communication and partnerships, and research and evaluation. Three of the four TEIs focused their strategic planning on the development of pre-service teacher education programs, while one focused on research and evaluation. In the process, the TEIs identified support from the management as pivotal in the implementation of the plan. However, they also encountered challenges in senior staff's reluctance to change, lack of funding, and shortages of qualified staff.
Introduction of ICT and multimedia into Cambodia's teacher training centres
Authors: Dionys David
Published: April 2016

This article describes the integration of ICT in the teacher training centres of Cambodia. It focuses on the collaboration between the Teacher Training Department of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MoEYS) of Cambodia and VVOB (Flemish Association for Development Cooperation and Technical Assistance), which is aimed at improving ICT integration in pre-service teacher training. The article firstly provides an overview that outlines the major challenges the country is facing regarding ICT integration in education, and teacher training specifically. Then it will explain the strategy chosen to improve the quality of education, followed by a discussion of the concrete actions that were taken. While the integration is an ongoing process, some intermediate impacts and findings are discussed. This short paper concludes with a look at the challenges lying ahead.
Using blended creative teaching: Improving a teacher education course on designing materials for young children
Authors: Lou Shi-Jer , Chen Nai-Ci , Tsai Huei-Yin , Tseng Kuo-Hung , Shih Ru-Chu
Published: April 2016

This study combined traditional classroom teaching methods and blogs with blended creative teaching as a new teaching method for the course Design and Applications of Teaching Aids for Young Children. It aimed to improve the shortcomings of the traditional teaching approach by incorporating the Asking, Thinking, Doing, and Evaluation (ATDE) teaching model and encouraging interactions between teacher and students. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of using blogs in blended creative teaching while also exploring the ideal blended creative teaching model, work completion rates, patent applications (as the teaching outcome), and learning attitudes of students. The research subjects were 46 second year students from the department of early childhood education in a vocational high school. Data were collected from qualitative teaching materials, teaching logs, learning logs, blog applications, and quantitative survey questionnaire. The results showed that the ideal blended creative teaching model can be implemented over six stages. Additionally, creative techniques can help teachers generate ideas on teaching material design and facilitate patent applications. Furthermore, the results of the survey indicate that students possessed positive feedback and affirmation toward the blended creative teaching model. Finally, blog teaching can help enhance interactions between teachers and students and among peers, thus improving the effectiveness of learning.
Computer-based concept maps for enabling multilingual education in computer science: A Basque, English and Spanish languages case
Authors: Arruarte Ana , Elorriaga Jon A. , Calvo Iñaki , Larrañaga Mikel , Rueda Urko
Published: April 2016

Inside the globalisation era in which society is immersed, one of the current challenges for any educational system is to provide quality education. While some countries are linguistically homogeneous, many countries and regions display a wealth of linguistic diversity and it is essential to adapt the educational system to those realities. In addition, multilingual education promotes not only social equality but also inter-cultural education. The development of computer software localisable not only at interface level but also regarding learning resources may help to fulfill this aim. During the last years a number of products have emerged to support computer-based concept mapping. This paper presents a pilot study carried out at the University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU in the area of database systems with three main aims: to facilitate learning about the subject domain, to evaluate whether concept mapping is in general a good technique for learning topics in different languages, and finally, to verify whether CM-ED Concept Map EDitor provides the necessary mechanisms to fulfil this objective. Results confirm that the use of a concept map editor is a good support for education in multilingual settings.
MICE 2.0: Designing multimedia content to foster active learning in a Malaysian classroom
Authors: Neo Tse-Kian , Neo Mai , Kwok Wai-Jing , Tan Yeen-Ju , Lai Chen-Haw , Zarina Che Embi
Published: April 2016

With the strong emphasis of social constructivism, many educators are finding new ways to stimulate and enhance social activities within the classroom. One such method is the use of cooperative learning. A cohort of students worked in small teams cooperatively to complete an assignment while using blogs to document and reflect their work. Moreover, the students were required to use multimedia learning objects to enhance their knowledge in media production. The purpose of the study is to account for the students' perspective and experience learning in such an environment, known as Multimedia Integrated Cooperative-learning Environment (MICE) 2.0. A mixed method design approach was employed that included tests, survey and open-ended questions to gauge their learning ability, and attitudes about working in groups and using blogs in their learning process. The results showed that while the existence of the five cooperative components were crucial for a successful cooperative learning structure, the findings indicated that respect, tolerance and communication are important aspects in working successfully in teams. They also found using blogs as a good learning experience to use for reflecting upon their work. Overall, the learning environment showed that cooperative learning using technology allowed the students to gain lifelong learning skills that are important for their future endeavours.
Design-based research principles for student orientation to online study: Capturing the lessons learnt
Authors: Wozniak Helen , Pizzica Jenny , Mahony Mary Jane
Published: April 2016

Few institutions have reported research on students' use of orientation programs designed for mature students returning to study in contemporary learning environments now regularly amalgamating distance and online strategies. We report within a design-based research framework the student experience ofGetLearning, the third stage of an innovative online orientation program. Integral to the design is active student engagement with activities to extend their skills whilst still supported in a risk free environment. Analysis included observations of the patterns of student activity, students' responses in evaluation instruments, our reflections, and identification of the limitations to deployment of such orientation programs. We also provide a set of design principles to guide further development work and research.
A context-aware ubiquitous learning approach to conducting scientific inquiry activities in a science park
Authors: Hwang Gwo-Jen , Tsai Chin-Chung , Chu Hui-Chun , Kinshuk Kinshuk , Chen Chieh-Yuan
Published: April 2016

Fostering students' scientific inquiry competence has been recognised as being an important and challenging objective of science education. To strengthen the understanding of science theories or notations, researchers have suggested conducting some learning activities in the field via operating relevant devices. In a traditional in-field scientific inquiry activity, the teacher usually lets the students operate the devices on their own after demonstrating the operational procedure. With such an approach, the students are likely to suspend the practice when they encounter problems; moreover, it is difficult for the students to connect what they have learned from the textbooks with the field practice. To deal with this problem, this study presents a context-aware ubiquitous learning system with sensing technology to detect and examine the real-world learning behaviours of students, such that personalised learning guidance and feedback can be provided; moreover, the students' experiences of operating those scientific devices, such as solar power equipment or the constellation simulators, can be conjunct to the knowledge learned from the textbooks. The experimental results from a science course of an elementary school show that this innovative approach is able to improve the learning achievements of students as well as enhance their learning motivation.
Distance learners: Connected, mobile and resourceful individuals
Authors: Andrews Trish , Tynan Belinda
Published: April 2016

In recent years the student experience of higher education in general and distance education in particular has been strongly influenced by the wide scale uptake of Internet based learning approaches and an expanding distance education market, amongst many other trends. As competition within the sector increases because of access to the WWW and other in-country socio-political influences, the push to attract and retain students is becoming a key issue for institutions. Understanding the distance student's voice in relation to these trends and developing appropriate responses to ensure a satisfactory learning experience is of critical importance. This paper reports on a recently completed study that explored the distance learners' experience at one dual-mode Australian institution. The paper outlines a rationale for investigating the student voice to meet the unique needs of the distance learner. It describes the approaches that were adopted to undertake the research and discusses some of the main themes that emerged from the study - individualness, connectedness, quality, mobility, and resourcefulness. The paper concludes with considerations for policy and practice in relation to utilising the distance learners' voice in enhancing distance leaners' experiences.
Empirical validation of the importance of employees' learning motivation for workplace e-learning in Taiwanese organisations
Authors: Chen Hsiu-Ju , Kao Chia-Hung
Published: April 2016

E-learning systems, adopted by organisations for employee training to enhance employees' performance, are characterised by self-directed, autonomous learning. Learning motivation is then of importance in the design of e-learning practices in workplace. However, empirical study of the alignment of e-learning with individual learning needs and organisational goals is an area with limited research. This study intends to clarify the importance of learning motivation in employees' e-learning systems use behaviour, based on the information systems success model. Data from one hundred and eighty-five employees who used e-learning systems in their work environment were gathered in Taiwan and analysed with PLS. Results showed that employees' learning motivation, reflecting their learning needs and strengths, influenced perceived usefulness and satisfaction with e-learning, and their use of the systems, which enhanced their task performance. The results validated the importance of employees' learning motivation and the need for alignment of employees' learning needs and organisational goals in e-learning training. The clarification can help facilitate an organisation's human capital management, and contributes to further advancement of the information systems success model.
Comparing computer game and traditional lecture using experience ratings from high and low achieving students
Authors: Grimley Michael , Green Richard , Nilsen Trond , Thompson David
Published: April 2016

Computer games are purported to be effective instructional tools that enhance motivation and improve engagement. The aim of this study was to investigate how tertiary student experiences change when instruction was computer game based compared to lecture based, and whether experiences differed between high and low achieving students. Participants consisted two cohorts enrolled in a first year university course (Cohort 1, traditional: male=42, female=17; Cohort 2, computer game: male=42, female=7). Cohort 1 experienced course content as traditional lectures, Cohort 2 experienced course content embedded within a computer game. Csikszentmihalyi's experience sampling method was used to sample experiences of students for each cohort during instruction. Results showed that the computer game group were more challenged and valued the activity more than the traditional group, but were inclined to wish they were doing something else. High achieving students during game mode showed greater concentration but found it harder to concentrate and found game mode more sociable and lecture mode more boring. High achievers perceived greater success for lecture mode and found lectures more satisfying. Individual profiles of high and low achieving students for each mode indicated that games afforded better experiences for low achieving students but poorer experiences for high achieving students.
Challenging mobile learning discourse through research: Student perceptions of Blackboard Mobile Learn and iPads
Authors: Kinash Shelley , Brand Jeffrey , Mathew Trishita
Published: April 2016

Many university academics disagree with the rationale that we should pursue mobile learning because 21st century students are apparently demanding it. We argue that the only defensible rationale for making mobile learning part of pedagogy is because it enhances student learning. This presentation shares results from research with 135 students engaged in mobile learning over two semesters. It addresses the question of whether Blackboard Mobile Learn made a perceived difference to their learning. Results revealed that in-class, students used their mobile devices for Blackboard Mobile Learn to the same extent as they used them for searching the web for study, accessing university web pages, email and making Facebook posts, but less than they used them for browsing the web for pleasure and Facebook reading. The majority of students were neutral when asked if they prefer Mobile Learn over PC access to Blackboard. Students were likewise neutral when asked whether they perceived iPads to improve their learning. There was higher frequency agreement that using iPads motivated them to learn. Qualitative feedback from focus groups was mixed, but largely positive. The overall interpretation was that it is a matter of course that students would access their subject site via mobile devices.
Developing the clinical psychomotor skills of musculoskeletal sonography using a multimedia DVD: A pilot study
Authors: Thoirs Kerry , Coffee Jane
Published: April 2016

Sonographers are medical or non-medical health professionals in the radiology field who skilfully manipulate ultrasound equipment to produce images that are used to diagnose medical conditions and abnormalities. This technique is also becoming popular amongst the wider community in other medical specialities and allied health professionals, due to decreasing costs and automation. This paper reports the findings of a pilot trial on the use of a specifically designed audiovisual tool to teach medical sonography students psychomotor skills to perform sonography of specific musculoskeletal structures of the ankle. A competency testing instrument was developed using the Dawson's psychomotor categories as a framework, which identified positive change in competency in several scanned structures following this intervention. Integrating a conceptual learning framework for psychomotor skills could be useful to guide the development of sonography training programs and assist educators to structure incremental teaching and assessment activities, enabling a more consistent approach to developing psychomotor skills. Alterations in instructional design using this technology may relieve some of the burden of clinical teaching in the workplace.
In search of a method to assess dispositional behaviours: The case of Otago Virtual Hospital
Authors: Loke Swee-Kin , Blyth Phil , Swan Judith
Published: April 2016

While the potentials of virtual worlds to support experiential learning in medical education are well documented, assessment of student learning within these environments is relatively scarce and often incongruent. In this article, a conceptual framework is proposed for formatively assessing dispositional behaviours in scenario-based learning within a virtual world. The framework was devised for use with medical students playing the roles of junior doctors as they solve open-ended clinical cases within an environment called the Otago Virtual Hospital. Drawing upon Perkins, Jay and Tishman's (1993) dispositional theory of thinking, it is proposed that the assessment of dispositional behaviours in scenario-based activities can be carried out by measuring the number of times students either seize or miss an opportunity to engage in a particular dispositional behaviour. The approach can potentially also be used for assessing scenario-based learning in other disciplines (e.g. law, business, military).
Responding to the widening participation agenda through improved access to and within 3D virtual learning environments
Authors: Wood Denise , Willems Julie
Published: April 2016

The Australian Government's widening participation agenda - also referred to as the social inclusion agenda - considers equity through the triple focus of access, participation and outcomes. These foci are catalysts for re-examining teaching and learning approaches in formal education. This article considers this national refocus and the possibilities for addressing access and equity issues through and within three-dimensional virtual learning environments (3DVLEs). The findings of an Australian Learning and Teaching Council (ALTC)-funded project that investigated the potential of an accessible 3DVLE for increasing access and participation of students with disabilities are reported, and strategies for improving outcomes (i.e. retention, success and completion) proposed. The article also highlights some of the remaining challenges with regard to the goal of improving outcomes for under-represented learner groups. The final section of the article identifies areas for further research.
Developing a virtual physics world
Authors: Wegener Margaret , McIntyre Timothy J. , McGrath Dominic , Savage Craig M. , Williamson Michael
Published: April 2016

In this article, the successful implementation of a development cycle for a physics teaching package based on game-like virtual reality software is reported. The cycle involved several iterations of evaluating students' use of the package followed by instructional and software development. The evaluation used a variety of techniques, including ethnographic observation, surveys, student focus groups and conventional assessment. The teaching package included a laboratory manual, instructional support materials and the Real Time Relativity software that simulates a world obeying special relativistic physics. Although the iterative development cycle was time consuming and costly, it gave rise to substantial improvements in the software user interface and in the students' learning experience.
Unpacking frames of reference to inform the design of virtual world learning in higher education
Authors: Wimpenny Katherine , Savin-Baden Maggi , Mawer Matt , Steils Nicole , Tombs Gemma
Published: April 2016

In the changing context of globalised higher education, a series of pedagogical shifts have occurred, and with them, a number of interactive learning approaches have emerged. This article reports on findings taken from a large-scale study that explored the socio-political impact of virtual world learning on higher education in the UK, specifically with regard to Second Life. Three dominant frames of reference emerged following analysis of data gathered from student and staff perspectives of their experience and use of Second Life, namely: (i) games and gaming media; (ii) disciplinary learning; and (iii) institutional space and ownership. Such frames of reference were evident in the practices of those involved in using virtual worlds, but it is suggested here that they have largely been overlooked in the literature in terms of their impact and how they may inform learner understandings. We argue that these frames of reference need to be recognised and located in the design and use of virtual worlds in higher education. Throughout the article we present our findings in relation to perspectives emanating from Europe as well as Australasia and the wider Asia Pacific.
Drivers of learning management system use in a South African open and distance learning institution
Authors: Venter Peet , Jansen van Rensburg Mari , Davis Annemari
Published: April 2016

The study on which this article reports examined the determinants of usage of an online learning management system (LMS) by fourth level business students at a South African open and distance learning university using an extension of the widely used technology acceptance model (TAM) as a theoretical basis. A survey was conducted among students at their annual summer school, with 213 usable questionnaires being returned. The findings suggest that perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use as core aspects of the TAM and TAM2 models are confirmed, and study relevance (job relevance in the TAM2 model) and facilitating conditions as extensions are confirmed also. However, other elements of the TAM2 model and extensions were not confirmed by the research, while the relationships between these constructs, behavioural intention and LMS use were significant but not particularly strong. Thus, despite the ostensible robustness of the underlying structure and dimensionality of the TAM core constructs, its usefulness as a model to explain usage in this context and in a setting where acceptance and usage patterns have been established over prolonged periods of time is limited. The findings do, however, suggest certain initiatives to assist in increasing the perceived usefulness of the LMS.
Four scenarios for determining the size and reusability of learning objects
Authors: Schoonenboom Judit
Published: April 2016

The best method for determining the size of learning objects (LOs) so as to optimise their reusability has been a topic of debate for years now. Although there appears to be agreement on basic assumptions, developed guidelines and principles are often in conflict. This study shows that this confusion stems from the fact that in the literature, hardly any attention is paid to different types of reusability. This study not only shows that there are different types of reusability, but also that different types of reusability go together with different principles for developing LOs and for determining LO size. A grounded theory analysis was performed on separate statements on LO development in 71 selected publications from LO literature. This resulted in the development of four scenarios for LO development, each with their own definition of reusability and their own principle for determining the size of LOs. A field test with 11 experts showed that the scenarios are recognisable. In higher education, educational technologists often assist amateur LO developers. Educational technologists can use the scenarios to determine which definition of reusability is applicable to their situation and which principle for determining the size of LOs should be applied.
Setting up a low-cost lab management system for a multi-purpose computing laboratory using virtualisation technology
Authors: Mok Heng Ngee , Lee Yeow Leong , Tan Wee Kiat
Published: April 2016

This paper describes how a generic computer laboratory equipped with 52 workstations is set up for teaching IT-related courses and other general purpose usage. The authors have successfully constructed a lab management system based on decentralised, client-side software virtualisation technology using Linux and free software tools from VMware that fulfils the requirements of fast "switch over" time between consecutive lab sessions, the ability to support a wide range of IT courses and usage scenarios, low cost, easy maintenance, and a sandboxed environment for potentially disruptive IT security lab exercises. Sufficient implementation details are provided so that readers can build a similar lab management system. The objective is to share ideas and experiences that may be useful for lab administrators in academic institutions facing the same requirements and budgetary constraints.
Pathways for improving support for the electronic management and marking of assignments
Authors: Heinrich Eva , Milne John , Granshaw Bruce
Published: April 2016

This article investigates the support e-learning can provide for the management and marking of assignments. The work is contextualised in the importance of assessment with assignments in tertiary education, in the theories about high quality marking of assignments, and the practical experiences of academics at tertiary institutions. The tasks that need to be carried out as part of assignment management and marking are detailed. A set of requirements is derived based on the education literature and on practical needs established in interviews with academics. Possible architectures for an e-learning system implementing these requirements are suggested and arguments are provided towards using an architecture that combines existing learning management system functionality for assignments with a specialised assignment management and marking application. A specific implementation based on Moodleand Lightwork is introduced. The article concludes with thoughts on the cognitive fit of learning management systems for assignment marking tasks and their core roles in supporting teaching and learning.
 
Critical discourse analysis of collaborative engagement in Facebook postings
Authors: Rambe Patient
Published: April 2016

While research literature affirms the potential for social networking sites (SNSs) to democratise communication, their impact on micro-level, academic relations at university level has not been explored sufficiently in developing countries. The literature on SNSs (especially Facebook) has emphasised its appropriation for the marketing of university programs to prospective students and enhancing institutional-level contact between university administration and students. As such, the impact of SNSs on micro-level (educator-learner and learner-peer) relations and relational power remains speculative. Mindful of how discursive types and discourses inform the construction of social power, this study employs critical discourse analysis (CDA) and educator-learnersFacebook conversations to expose the exercise of relational power and social learning in these interactional spaces. Facebookpostings are examined to explore academic relations and associated learner challenges like limited meaningful engagement with peers and content, superficial learning and general academic under-preparedness. The findings suggest the prevalence of formal authoritative (or hierarchical) discourses, few informal liberating (horizontal) discourses, nascent peer-based collaboration and limited learner engagement with theory. These phenomena generally point at first year students' under-developed study skills and less sophisticated literacies. The challenges and potential for transformative learning are explored and possibilities for effective engagement suggested.
Using dynamic geometry software to improve eight grade students' understanding of transformation geometry
Authors: Guven Bulent
Published: April 2016

This study examines the effect of dynamic geometry software (DGS) on students' learning of transformation geometry. A pre- and post-test quasi-experimental design was used. Participants in the study were 68 eighth grade students (36 in the experimental group and 32 in the control group). While the experimental group students were studying the transformation geometry in a (DGE), the same instruction was carried out with dotted and isometric worksheets with the control group students. A 15 multiple choiceTransformation Geometry Achievement Test and a 15 open ended item Learning Levels of Transformation Geometry Testwere used as pre and post-test. The result of covariance analysis showed that the experimental group outperformed the control group not only in academic achievement but also in levels of learning of transformation geometry.
Academic analytics in a medical curriculum: Enabling educational excellence
Authors: Olmos Martin , Corrin Linda
Published: April 2016

The developing field of academic analytics seeks to turn data from educational systems into actionable intelligence for the improvement of teaching and learning. This paper reports on the implementation of analytics in a new medical school with an integrated curriculum and clinical focus. Analytics addressed two challenges in the curriculum: providing evidence of appropriate curriculum coverage and assessing student engagement and equity while on clinical placement. This paper describes the tools and approaches used, and outlines the lessons learnt. These lessons include the risk of a simplistic use of visualisations, their potential to generate important questions, the value of a flexible approach to tool selection, the need for relevant skills, and the importance of keeping the audience central. Although there is much further potential for the school to realise, academic analytics have already been a critical enabler of educational excellence.
Leading change: Applying change management approaches to engage students in blended learning
Authors: Quinn Diana , Amer Yousef , Lonie Anne , Blackmore Kim , Thompson Lauren , Pettigrove Malcolm
Published: April 2016

The Australian National University (ANU) and the University of South Australia (UniSA) have embarked on Federally-funded project to collaborate in the design, development and delivery of a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering. The collaboration investigates new ways to bring together the strengths and discipline expertise of each institution to the students of both universities, utilising blended teaching and learning approaches. The collaboration brings much change - at the organisational level in the blending of programs, at the staff level in their approaches to teaching and at the students' level in their approaches and engagement with cross-institutional blended learning. This paper focuses on how change management principles were used to guide a systematic approach to engaging students into the learning culture associated with the Engineering Hubs and Spokes Project's theme - 'Advanced Collaboration for Excellence'.
Understanding student perceptions and motivation towards academic blogs: An exploratory study
Authors: Deng Liping , Yuen Allan H. K.
Published: April 2016

The success of academic blogs depends on the participation and engagement of students. Taking an exploratory approach, this study aims to develop a better understanding of the perceptions of student teachers towards academic blogging, and the factors that motivate them to write academic blogs voluntarily. Drawing on data gathered from questionnaires, interviews, and content analysis of blog posts, the study reveals a set of mediating factors in individual, social and academic dimensions, among which students' perceived values of blogs play a critical role. Our findings have methodological and practical implications for researchers and teachers interested in academic blogs, especially for those in the field of teacher education.
Effects of presentation mode on mobile language learning: A performance efficiency perspective
Authors: Chen I-Jung , Chang Chi-Cheng , Yen Jung-Chuan
Published: April 2016

This study investigated the effects of simultaneous written text on the comprehension of spoken English as a foreign language, when the text is presented with the aid of a personal digital assistant (PDA) as a learning tool. Eighty-seven university students majoring in applied foreign languages were randomly assigned to either listening with auditory materials only, or listening with identical and concurrent written text. Performance efficiency was used to provide a better indicator of the quality of learning. The results revealed that for learners with lower English levels, the presence of concurrent written text elicited higher performance efficiency in the immediate recall task of the English listening comprehension. However, the beneficial effect of the written text did not extend to the subsequent auditory-only passage. The study suggested that when using mobile devices as training tools, the provision of written text facilitates the acquisition of information but not the schema construction of the English listening comprehension skill.
Using a wiki-based collaborative process writing pedagogy to facilitate collaborative writing among Chinese primary school students
Authors: Li Xuanxi , Chu Samuel K. W. , Ki Wing Wah , Woo Matsuko Mukumoto
Published: April 2016

This case study explored collaborative writing in Chinese among 59 primary four Chinese students using a Wiki-based Collaborative Process Writing Pedagogy (WCPWP) in Shenzhen, China. It aimed mainly to design and orchestrate a WCPWP in order to facilitate students' Chinese writing. It investigated students' collaborative writing process and their performance on a wiki, and explored the perceptions and attitudes of the teacher and her students towards WCPWP. A wiki-based writing environment named Joyous Writing Club (JWC) was designed and developed using MediaWiki software. Data was collected from questionnaires, online wiki documents, interviews, and observations. The results illustrated students' collaborative writing process and their products on the wiki. Besides, the results showed that students perceived WCPWP was beneficial in boosting writing motivation, increasing group interactions, and extending the audience for their writing. This study may help primary educators gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between technology, pedagogy and education. It may also provide practical recommendations for primary school Chinese language teachers in the integration of Web 2.0 tools (wikis, Google Docs) as well as the use of effective pedagogical strategies in the teaching of Chinese writing.