bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ICT Use in Science and Mathematics Teacher Education in Tanzania: Developing Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge
Authors: Kafyulilo Ayoub , Fisser Petra , Pieters Jules , Voogt Joke
Published: April 2016

Currently, teacher education colleges in Tanzania are being equipped with computers to prepare teachers who can integrate technology in teaching. Despite these efforts, teachers are not embracing the use of technology in their teaching. This study adopted Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) as a framework for describing the knowledge and skills that pre-service teachers need to develop in order to effectively integrate technology in science and mathematics teaching. Pre-service teachers (N=22) participated in microteaching, hands-on training, collaborative lesson design in design teams, and reflection with peers. Pre- and post-assessment results of the pre-service teachers’ perceived knowledge and skills of integrating technology in teaching, showed significant changes in technology-related components of TPACK. We conclude that opportunities for pre-service teachers to participate in professional development programs that involve lesson design, teaching, evaluation and re-design, can be effective for the development of the knowledge and skills of integrating technology in science and mathematics teaching.
Bullying in the new playground: Research into cyberbullying and cyber victimisation
Authors: Li Qing
Published: April 2016

This study examines the nature and extent of adolescents' cyberbullying experiences, and explores the extent to which various factors, including bullying, culture, and gender, contribute to cyberbullying and cyber victimisation in junior high schools. In this study, one in three adolescents was a cyber victim, one in five was a cyberbully, and over half of the students had either experienced or heard about cyberbullying incidents. Close to half of the cyber victims had no idea who the predators were. Culture and engagement in traditional bullying were strong predictors not only for cyberbullying, but also for cyber victimisation. Gender also played a significant role, as males, compared to their female counterparts, were more likely to be cyberbullies.
Comparing face to face, tutor led discussion and online discussion in the classroom
Authors: Ng Connie S. L. , Cheung Wing Sum
Published: April 2016

This study explores the relative effectiveness of in class online discussion and face to face, tutor led discussion in preservice teachers' recall of concepts. Two groups of preservice teachers, who engaged in different discussion modes, were tested two weeks later on how many concepts they could recall. No significant difference in the recall score was found between the two groups, but the group involved with the in-class discussions using a threaded discussion tool achieved a slightly higher mean score in the recall of multimedia design concepts. The online group completed a survey questionnaire on their perception of their use of online discussion. The majority perceived that they learned more online. The preservice teachers also indicated the mode of discussions that they preferred and the reasons for their choice. Half preferred to participate in in-class online discussions, rather than face to face, tutor led discussion, during class time. The findings suggested that educators and learners may choose either in-class online discussion or face to face, tutor led discussion without fear of significant disadvantages to learning.
Accommodating culture and cultural diversity in online teaching
Authors: Goold Annegret , Craig Annemieke , Coldwell Jo
Published: April 2016

The term 'culture' has been in common use for a long time. However there is no universally accepted definition and hence it is important to define clearly what culture means in a particular research context. The research reported here is part of a project undertaken at a large Australian university in late 2005. The overall aim of the project was to identify the characteristics of culture and cultural diversity, and to consider how these manifested themselves when teaching and learning in an online environment. This paper reports on particular outcomes from the second stage of the project. This involved conducting focus groups with experienced academics and educational developers of online units. The aim was to gain an understanding of culture and cultural difference in the online environment and to consider what strategies were effective in teaching a culturally diverse cohort of online students. The findings from the focus group sessions were benchmarked with other external faculty. The cultural factors of ethnicity and language, attitudes to educational learning, education and prior learning, learning styles and socio-economic background were well supported by the external faculty. However the factors of religion and gender were not supported. Practices for accommodating such cultural differences amongst students within the online class are presented.
A framework for analysing ICT adoption in Australian primary schools
Authors: Way Jenni , Webb Colin
Published: April 2016

Over 400 e-learning grant applications from Australian primary schools were analysed to determine the nature of the proposed ICT based projects in literacy and numeracy. Three key dimensions emerged from the teacher descriptions: ICT infrastructure, motivation and ICT use, and pedagogy and innovation. The three dimensions, and the interactions between them, provide a means for understanding the complex factors within an individual school that determine the nature of ICT use and the potential for innovation. Several types, or levels, were identified within each dimension, together forming a framework that can be applied as both a research tool and a model for describing in detail the current status of ICT use in a school.
Assessment of online reflections: Engaging English second language (ESL) students
Authors: Birch Dawn , Volkov Michael
Published: April 2016

Online discussion boards are being used increasingly by tertiary educators as a tool for encouraging greater student interaction and developing learning communities. In particular, educators who have adopted a learner centered, socio-constructivist approach to teaching have sought to facilitate collaborative learning in which students reflect upon and share their experiences and perspectives, and construct knowledge together through developing shared meanings. This paper presents the findings of an electronic survey of the perceptions of 70 distance education EFL and ESL students concerning a compulsory assessment item involving contribution to an online course discussion board. The study revealed that the majority of the students enjoyed the assessment item and agreed that posting to the online course discussion board had allowed them to achieve a range of cognitive and social learning outcomes, as well as to develop some important graduate skills. In particular, ESL students reported the benefits of posting to the discussion board in terms of sharing their experiences with others and reducing the feeling of isolation. Further, when considering social outcomes, ESL students perceive the discussion board provided them with an opportunity to meet and develop a closer relationship with other students in the course and encouraged them to keep up with their studies.
Lecturers' attitudes about the use of learning management systems in engineering education: A Swedish case study
Authors: Garrote Ramon , Pettersson Tomas
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study was to examine lecturers' attitudes towards learning management systems (LMS), with particular reference to identifying obstacles to increased use. At the University College of Borås, Sweden, 22 lecturers who had used WebCT during the previous 9 months were interviewed. The answers show that most of the lecturers, including those who only used minor parts of the LMS, believed that they could benefit from using a LMS in the future. The study did not support the hypothesis that fear of the complexity of the system or unwanted effects on education are important reasons for lecturers not to use the LMS. When lecturers decide individually to use tools in the LMS, the major concern is the initial amount of work compared with the expected benefits. Due to the benefits of a fully implemented LMS and the results of this study, it is recommended that institutions in higher education take actions to establish LMS as a standard tool, and support development of the lecturers' professional competence.
Applying adaptive variables in computerised adaptive testing
Authors: Triantafillou Evangelos , Georgiadou Elissavet , Economides Anastasios A.
Published: April 2016

Current research in computerised adaptive testing (CAT) focuses on applications, in small and large scale, that address self assessment, training, employment, teacher professional development for schools, industry, military, assessment of non-cognitive skills, etc. Dynamic item generation tools and automated scoring of complex, constructed response examinations are coming into use. Therefore it is important to extend CAT's functionality to include more variables in its student model that define the examinee as an individual beyond the mastery level, for improved performance and more efficient test delivery. This paper examines variables that can prompt adaptation and discusses their potential use in a hypothetical student model for CAT. The objective of this effort is to provide researchers, designers, and developers of CAT a perspective for exploiting research outcomes from the area of personalised hypermedia applications.
Factors influencing vocational teacher's use of online functionalities in Australia
Authors: Robertson Ian
Published: April 2016

Robertson (2006b) surveyed Australian vocational teachers to propose that the criteria of newness, complexity, compatibility and locus of control are influential in shaping the frequency of online functionality use. The current paper tests and further refines this proposition by comparing the likelihood that online functionalities will be used at least monthly by vocational teachers whose delivery approaches are primarily face to face and non-face to face. Generally, it is found that the longer an online functionality has been available for use in vocational education, the greater the likelihood of regular use in face to face and non-face to face delivery approaches. However, the increase of regular use over time is not universal. A complex relationship between the functionality's newness, complexity, and compatibility is influential in shaping the likelihood of regular use. Whereas compatibility relates to a teacher's existing practices and needs, locus of control is specifically concerned with a teacher's pedagogic preferences. It is suggested that vocational teachers are more likely to regularly use functionalities that promote teacher control rather than learner control. The implications of the proposed relationship between the four criteria and the likelihood that online functionalities will be used by vocational teachers are discussed, and opportunities for further research identified.
'Fitting it in': A study exploring ICT use in a UK primary school
Authors: Cartwright Victoria , Hammond Michael
Published: April 2016

This paper presents a case study of a primary school which was seen as using ICT effectively to support teaching and learning. Research was carried out over two years (2003-2005) and included observation of lessons, document analysis, interviews, and questionnaires with staff at the school. It was found that 'fitting ICT in', rather than 'effective use of ICT', provided a more accurate description of the complex decisions and actions that were made regarding ICT use in the school. Using a grounded theory framework the paper describes the causal conditions; the contextual conditions; the intervening conditions and the consequences for staff and pupils associated with 'fitting ICT in'. The study argues for an approach to research which seeks to develop collaboration and understanding between researchers and practitioners.
A Bridge too Far or a Bridge to the Future? A case study in online assessment at Charles Sturt University
Authors: Buchan Janet F. , Swann Michael
Published: April 2016

The in house development of an online assessment tool, OASIS, has provided a unique opportunity to research the use of online assessment in teaching and learning across the university. The developing relationship between IT staff, educational designers and academics serves as a model for integrated and evolving management systems which demonstrate how academic research is informing improvements in applying educational technology. A framework, theBridge Support Framework for Online Learning, is proposed for the support and implementation of online learning systems. A case study in online assessment in a microeconomics subject describes the development of this framework in response to a 'systems' failure when using the online assessment software tool during a major assessment event for a large external student cohort. As the university moves towards an open source learning management system for 2008, the range of online assessment methods will increase. It is here that our case study and the proposed Bridge Support Framework have potential value in learning from history to improve processes and procedures for the future.
Factors affecting educational innovation with in class electronic response systems
Authors: Freeman Mark , Bell Amani , Comerton-Forde Carole , Pickering Joanne , Blayney Paul
Published: April 2016

This paper reports the use of Rogers' diffusion of innovation perspective to understand the factors affecting educational innovation decisions, specifically in regard to in class electronic response systems. Despite decreasing costs and four decades of research showing strong student support, academic adoption is limited. Using data collected from academic users, non-adopters and other stakeholders reflecting on factors known to affect innovation diffusion, we find issues of cultural compatibility, complexity and relative advantage to be the most critical aspects affecting adoption decisions. These issues partially negate the benefits of increased in class interaction and student engagement. Suggestions for overcoming these issues are discussed.
Australian undergraduates' use and ownership of emerging technologies: Implications and opportunities for creating engaging learning experiences for the Net Generation
Authors: Oliver Beverley , Goerke Veronica
Published: April 2016

Studies and commentary from the United States suggest that current undergraduates, part of the so called Net Generation, are high end users of emerging technologies such as mobile devices and new communication tools. This paper reports results from an Australian study of first year undergraduates which confirms these assertions: ownership of laptops, mobile phones and music devices appears to be growing rapidly among this group, along with their use of tools such as instant messaging, blogs and podcasts. Discussion of these results include suggestions as to how teachers of first year undergraduates can incorporate these tools and devices into extramural learning experiences in order to increase engagement and exploit the Net Generation's desire for 'connectedness'.
Achieving synergies through generic skills: A strength of online communities
Authors: Clarkson Barnard , Brook Chris
Published: April 2016

Educators are often torn between impositions of the institution in which they work and the imperatives of their individual courses or units and the impact this tension might have on student satisfaction with the learning experience. It is common to hear that students must graduate with multiple generic attributes or skills, yet these skills may not be within the gamut normally required in a specific undergraduate unit. This paper reports on an attempt to integrate both University sanctioned or top down generic skills and an instructor's organic or bottom up desirable skills in a multimedia unit at an Australian university, and the impact this has on student satisfaction. Specifically both asynchronous and synchronous tools were used to facilitate online community characteristics, in turn usable to foster the generic skills of collaboration, communication and problem solving. Results reveal synergies between the possibly divergent and potentially opposed goals of the university and the classroom. This paper demonstrates the ways that the conscious promotion of an online community to simultaneously assist achieving both the unit learning outcomes and prescribed generic skills, caused no evident conflict for student participants.
 
Moving towards a university wide implementation of an ePortfolio tool
Authors: Lambert Sarah , Corrin Linda
Published: April 2016

The University of Wollongong has been strategically exploring ePortfolios since 2002. Building on lessons learnt from student trials across two different disciplines in 2002/3 and 2006, the project team is on the verge of implementing a university wide ePortfolio tool customisable for all students across all faculties. This paper describes the steps taken on the road thus far, including a description and justification of a new project structure and consultative framework developed to guide the implementation.
Going with the grain: Mobile devices in practice
Authors: Pettit John , Kukulska-Hulme Agnes
Published: April 2016

Fifty-seven alumni of a global Masters program participated in research into their use of mobile devices. Drawing on questionnaire and interview data, the paper examines how far the devices were embedded in the personal and professional lives of these alumni, most of whom were aged 35-54. All had experience of online and distance education, and most worked in education or training. The study revealed some innovative uses of mobile devices, a selection of which is reported in this paper. The paper links the findings to wider debates about the changing relationship between learners and educational institutions, and the role of mobile devices in enabling individuals to engage in learning conversations. Data are provided on which devices were used by the alumni and for what purposes, and the paper explores the implications of these findings for educators.
Instructors' experiences of web based synchronous communication using two way audio and direct messaging
Authors: Murphy Elizabeth , Ciszewska-Carr Justyna
Published: April 2016

This paper reports on an exploratory case study designed to gain insight into instructors' experiences with web based synchronous communication using two way audio and direct messaging. We conducted semi-structured interviews with eight instructors who used Elluminate Live in their web based, asynchronous courses in Education, Nursing, and Social Work at a Canadian university during the Winter 2004-05. We grouped the findings into two categories. The first category relates to use of text based communication or direct messaging (DM). We subdivided this category as follows: trouble shooting versus teaching; and public versus private conversations. The second category relates to use of voice based communication or audio conferencing (two way audio) subdivided into four sub-categories as follows: talkers versus listeners; patience versus prompting; whole group versus breakout groups; and two way versus one way communication. Use of text based messaging and two way audio raised issues of the need to divide one's attention and to promote student-student interaction. Implications for research and practice are presented.
Assessing technology integration: Its validity and value for classroom practice and teacher accountability
Authors: Bowes Kathleen A. , D'Onofrio Antonia , Marker Elaine S.
Published: April 2016

This article questions whether popular approaches to the assessment of technology integration with classroom instruction are valid. The article explores Messick's (1993) conceptualisation of consequential validity, in an attempt to understand what validity must be evident when the integration of technology with classroom instruction is assessed. This article also compares and contrasts assessment tools and systems that are currently used, searching for evidence of valid assessment. Individually these tools sample a very limited collection of teacher knowledge and skill. Against a backdrop of rapidly expanding expectations and rapid change, the tests are probably unable to capture what teachers need to do, and more importantly what they actually are doing. The article concludes with recommendations to strengthen the validity of assessments of technology integration.
ICT integration and teachers' confidence in using ICT for teaching and learning in Queensland state schools
Authors: Jamieson-Proctor Romina M. , Burnett Paul C. , Finger Glenn , Watson Glenice
Published: April 2016

Information and communication technology (ICT) curriculum integration is the apparent goal of an extensive array of educational initiatives in all Australian states and territories. However, ICT curriculum integration is neither value neutral nor universally understood. The literature indicates the complexity of rationales and terminology that underwrite various initiatives; various dimensions and stages of integration; inherent methodological difficulties; obstacles to integration; and significant issues relating to teacher professional development and ICT competencies (Jamieson-Proctor, Watson, & Finger, 2003). This paper investigates the overarching question: Are ICT integration initiatives making a significant impact on teaching and learning in Queensland state schools? It reports the results from a teacher survey that measures the quantity and quality of student use of ICT. Results from 929 teachers across all year levels and from 38 Queensland state schools indicate that female teachers (73% of the full time teachers in Queensland state schools in 2005) are significantly less confident than their male counterparts in using ICT with students for teaching and learning, and there is evidence of significant resistance to using ICT to align curriculum with new times and new technologies. This result supports the hypothesis that current initiatives with ICT are having uneven and less than the desired results system wide. These results require further urgent investigation in order to address the factors that currently constrain the use of ICT for teaching and learning.
Scaffolding learners in authentic, problem based e-learning environments: The Geography Challenge
Authors: Brickell Gwyn , Herrington Jan
Published: April 2016

The affordances of online learning technologies have enabled more widespread development of learning environments that facilitate the exploration and solving of complex and realistic problems. In this paper, we describe the design of a real world geography problem, embedded within a web environment that is facilitated by an onsite excursion for data collection. The learning environment has been designed to deliberately address known problems associated with the problem solving approach, specifically in regard to three issues, and uses scaffolding prompts and supports embedded within the environment to facilitate student learning. The paper describes the theoretical foundations for the approach, the design of the learning task, and specific scaffolding approaches used in the environment.
Introducing a new learning management system: An institutional case study
Authors: Benson Robyn , Palaskas Tom
Published: April 2016

The introduction of an online learning management system (LMS) raises a number of complex issues involving institutional responses at various levels to the adoption and diffusion of technological change. Issues include those related to governance, management and technical support, as well as to core learning and teaching matters associated with the professional development and teaching of academic staff, and the support of staff and students. This paper draws on two cycles of an evaluation conducted in one institution as WebCT Vista was introduced and piloted, highlighting the key issues that emerged from the evaluation. These issues are considered in the context of a selected model for examining the adoption and diffusion of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in higher education, with a view to analysing the outcomes of the initiative, and guiding future planning.
Anonymity and in class learning: The case for electronic response systems
Authors: Freeman Mark , Blayney Paul , Ginns Paul
Published: April 2016

This research presents the results of a study of alternative response methods for in class formative questioning. Students' anonymity from their peers and instructor was studied through a research design that maintained a constant interactive teaching strategy in a large lecture hall, in all respects except for the method used by students to respond to the in class questions. A handheld electronic response keypad was the only approach affording complete anonymity. Student perceptions of the benefits of anonymity were obtained from a survey conducted at the end of the course. The results suggest that anonymity is a critical factor affecting student willingness to participate with in class exercises. Furthermore, the results indicate that students' propensity to engage with in class questions increases with the degree of anonymity provided to the student in revealing their response. The benefit of anonymity, combined with the increased availability and affordability of electronic response systems, will be of interest to academics keen to design engaging learning environments.
Supporting mobile education for pre-service teachers
Authors: Newhouse C. Paul , Williams P. John , Pearson Jennifer
Published: April 2016

Mobile computing devices are increasingly finding a place in universities, putting the pressure on teacher education to consider how best to incorporate the use of these technologies. At the same time there is pressure from the requirement for teacher education students to develop skills and experience in using digital technologies to support their teaching in schools. In response to these pressures the School of Education at Edith Cowan University has involved students in two exploratory projects over the past two years concerned with the use of laptop computers. This paper reports on the implementation and results of these projects. While generally the outcomes were positive it is not clear that this is the preferred solution when considering the range of digital device options available.
Teacher conceptions of blended learning, blended teaching and associations with approaches to design
Authors: Ellis Robert A. , Steed Aliya F. , Applebee Andrelyn C.
Published: April 2016

This paper describes the results and implications of a qualitative study into teacher conceptions of blended learning, blended teaching and associations of these conceptions with approaches to design for blended learning experiences. Twenty-two teachers from two campus based Australian universities were interviewed and the responses from them were categorised into qualitatively varied categories of conceptions and approaches. The distribution of the categorisation is considered in relation to the strength of associations amongst the categories. In doing so, this study builds on previous research into understanding what teachers think students learn, how teachers think they teach, and how these understandings are related in blended contexts to the ways teachers prepare student learning through design. The results show that teacher conceptions of blended learning that focus on the use of technological media as one way of achieving learning outcomes and supporting critical investigation by students tend to be associated with conceptions of blended teaching which focus on helping students to develop new ideas and understanding.
Bridging pedagogy and technology: User evaluation of pronunciation oriented CALL software
Authors: Tsai Pi-Hua
Published: April 2016

While it has become common to employ pronunciation oriented software to improve one's pronunciation in L2, both language teachers and L2 learners feel uncertain about choosing software to meet their purposes. Taking MyET, pronunciation oriented software written and highly praised in Taiwan, as a representative program, this study investigated its pedagogical usefulness through the viewpoints of nine junior college students (with three levels of English proficiency). The evaluation showed that MyET was able to differentiate between students at the beginning and intermediate levels, though its design for providing input and practice exercises has room for improvement. A questionnaire completed by the nine students indicated that they liked best the program's segment analysis and function of replaying target segments. Students enjoyed practising at their own pace and receiving individualised, immediate feedback from MyET, but considered the practice to be "mechanical." They expressed needs for more instruction on how to refine their pronunciation and for cumulative analyses of performances. This study contributes towards the design principles for pronunciation oriented software that can address users' language learning and practice needs. Implications for teaching pronunciation and selecting pronunciation oriented courseware are discussed.
Motivational factors affecting online learning by Japanese MBA students
Authors: Kikuchi Hisayo
Published: April 2016

In Japan, Internet based learning is still at an early stage. However, adult learners in Japanese society expect the development of flexible e-learning programs. This case study examines motivational factors affecting online learning in a Japanese and Australian MBA program, using observations, interviews and a questionnaire survey. The data were investigated from motivational categories of the ARCS model (an acronym from Attention, Relevance, Confidence and Satisfaction) and influence of e-learners' learning environment, by comparing two e-learning experience stages, beginning and final. The analyses revealed that whereas the e-learners at the beginning stage were curious about e-learning, required encouragement in individual learning situations, and set goals individually, the learners with about two years e-learning experience were motivated by interdependence, flexibility and sharing the rewards with family. The study also showed motivation of adult e-learners was individually different, but was positively influenced by online collaborative interaction, in particular with peers and in group activities. Interaction in e-learning settings went beyond social activities and the simple exchange of information. This article concludes with some suggestions for improving the design of e-learning programs for Japanese students.
Beyond the classroom: WebCT and learning Modern Hebrew
Authors: Gilead Yona
Published: April 2016

The developments of new technologies over the last decades provide some answers to the limited exposure imposed on second/foreign language (L2) learners, who study a target language in an academic setting in countries where that language is not actively used. Not only are such learners restricted in their exposure to the L2 in the formal academic framework, due to the limited face to face learning time, but, more significantly, they lack the exposure to the language's 'real world' as it exists outside the language classroom. They are isolated from the target language's authentic discourse communities and its native speakers. Instead, learners mainly experience the language in its 'modified format' as manifested within the classroom itself.
This paper analyses the rationale for, and the process of, the development of the Modern Hebrew Beginners WebCTsite at the University of Sydney as a means of increasing students' exposure to the language and especially enhancing their communication in Hebrew through the use of technologies.

 
Adopting an electronic text book for a postgraduate accounting course: An experiential study
Authors: Schoch Herbert P. , Teoh Hai Yap , Kropman Margaret
Published: April 2016

Students are becoming accustomed to using the Internet as an information source that supplements or replaces the normal institutional and classroom handout. However, the use of full electronic books through the Internet or CD instead of a printed full text book is a uniquely different experience, not only for these students but also for academics and their institutions. This study describes the initiative of constructing, publishing, prescribing and using an online text book for use by students in a postgraduate accounting course at an Australian university. The experience provides valuable insights that suggest the need for changes to hardware and software facilities in homes, offices and learning institutions, to students' expectations, and to purchase interfaces and text display, before electronic text books can be readily accepted as an alternative learning tool.
It is encouraging from the accounting students' feedback that there was no strong evidence of rejection of the e-book as a learning tool, despite the current technological difficulties associated with its use. This is a positive sign for the hopefully not too distant future use of this learning tool in accounting education.
Prospective science teachers as e-learning designers
Authors: Kearney Matthew
Published: April 2016

The study investigated the efficacy of prospective teachers authoring and using their own online learning designs as a means of creating links between theory classes and their teaching practicum. Trainee primary and secondary teachers adopted an exemplary, well-researched learning design to inform their own specific task designs, and used them in the context of science lessons on their practicum. This process aided teachers' development of pedagogical and science content knowledge and helped them develop ICT teacher competencies.
Going online to learn health sciences research methods: The student experience
Authors: Giddings Lynne S , Campbell Shirley , Maclaren Peter
Published: April 2016

Health professionals are attracted to the flexibility of the virtual classroom for their on-going education. Recent studies have documented the differences in pedagogy between Internet based learning online and the traditional classroom setting, but few have investigated student health professionals' transitional process while engaged in online learning. The purpose of this mixed methods evaluation study was to document students' experience of a six month online research methods paper (unit). Specifically it explores factors that influenced student transition to online pedagogy and successful completion of the paper. Descriptive qualitative and quantitative analyses were applied to 230 student evaluations and 1720 emails collected over a four year period. The findings supported those of previous studies; the main reasons students study online is the flexibility it offers (87%) and the ability to study without taking time off work (72%). The student experiences were captured in the overarching theme 'from enduring to enjoying'. A teacher who works within a collaborative team, engages students early with interactive skill acquisition learning activities, and is responsive to online students' unique needs, can successfully facilitate students through the virtual classroom transitional phases: from 'virtual paralysis' to 'engagement' to 'getting into it' to 'surprised enjoyment'. Without strategies in place, however, teachers risk being overwhelmed by the onslaught of student emails, with the allotted teacher-student contact time slip sliding away.
A contextualised model of accessible e-learning practice in higher education institutions
Authors: Seale Jane
Published: April 2016

In the accessible e-learning community there are very few original metaphors, theories and models that have been developed to try and describe, explain and develop 'best' practice. This paper will explore the extent to which existing accessibility models can help to develop our conceptualisations of accessible e-learning practice, and outline a proposal for a new contextualised model of accessible e-learning practice. The key components of this model are accessibility stakeholders, accessibility drivers, accessibility mediators and stakeholder responses. The value of this model in helping to develop accessible e-learning practice in higher education is that it challenges researchers and practitioners to recognise that focusing solely on the drivers of accessibility (accessibility legislation, guidelines and standards) is not an effective strategy for developing and changing practice. If practice is to develop and e-learning be made optimally accessible we need to understand how stakeholders' responses to accessibility are influenced by the context in which they are operating, a context in which both accessibility drivers and mediators operate.
Gender issues in preservice teachers' training: ICT literacy and online learning
Authors: Markauskaite Lina
Published: April 2016

Gender differences in self reported ICT experience and ICT literacy among first year graduate trainee teachers were investigated. Using a dynamic model, three main components of aspiring teachers' ICT literacy were covered: (1) present general problem solving and technical ICT capabilities; (2) situational and longitudinal sustainability, and (3) transferability of ICT capabilities into a future professional domain. No significant differences were found between females and males for previous experience with ICT. However, males on average worked with computers significantly more hours per week than females. Significant differences between males and females were observed for technical ICT capabilities, and situational and longitudinal sustainability. Males' scores were higher. In the regression analysis, when the impacts of the background and ICT experience variables were controlled, gender failed to be a significant predictor for sustainability scores. However, it remained a significant predictor for some trainee teachers' scores, related to their technical ICT capabilities. Female and male participation in compulsory online learning activities was also compared. No significant differences were observed.
Students' perceptions of a selected aspect of a computer mediated academic writing program: An activity theory analysis
Authors: Brine John , Franken Margaret
Published: April 2016

The use of activity theory is considered in the evaluation of a web based academic writing course in a New Zealand university. Activity theory is an aspect of sociocultural theory and provides a model for the understanding of goal directed social activity. Like other recent developments in applied linguistics, research and evaluation in second language writing has been influenced by sociocultural theory, because it emphasises the social, rather than the individual, context of writing. The primary purpose in carrying out this study was to illuminate the use of activity theory as a formative evaluation technique for the improvement of large academic writing courses supported through the web conferencing features of a course management system, Web Crossing. Data were in the form of international student responses to prompts made in online diaries on a weekly basis throughout the course. An activity theory orientation guided the design of the prompts and the analysis of the data. Activity analysis allowed the researchers to appreciate the tensions and difficulties for students in managing the group processes that the web mediated instruction afforded or constrained. The study also suggests that the set of guiding questions derived from Jonassen and Rohrer-Murphy (1999) may be useful for future evaluations and research.
Using asynchronous online discussions in primary school project work
Authors: Jamaludin Azilawati , Lang Quek Choon
Published: April 2016

Using asynchronous online discussions for interschool collaborative project work represents one of the innovative practices in the Singapore classroom. With anytime, anywhere access to interactions among the students and teachers, the asynchronous nature of these interactions leads to new paradigms for teaching and learning, with both unique problems of coordination and unique opportunities to support active participation and collaborative learning. A research study was conducted to investigate how primary school students participate and learn in project work based on co-construction of knowledge in asynchronous online learning environments. 10 teachers and 20 students from 5 primary schools participated in this half-year long research study. Teachers crafted project tasks for implementation at the students' level and these tasks were addressed collaboratively by the students who formed project groups with members from another school. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of students' activity in the asynchronous online environment were conducted. Students' sent and received notes as well as the frequency of scaffolds used in the online environment were evaluated. Each note was also ranked according to Gunawardena, Lowe and Anderson's (1997)Interaction Analysis Model. The findings provided evidence to suggest that primary school students participating in the online project work learning environment were capable of the co-construction of knowledge up till Phase IV of theInteraction Analysis Model.
Degree of fit: University students in paid employment, service delivery and technology
Authors: Anderson Marilyn J.
Published: April 2016

This study examines the ease of, and proficiency in, accessing web based technology, and the convenience (or otherwise) of service delivery in the facilitation of combining study with paid work for undergraduate students of James Cook University (JCU), Cairns Campus, Far North Queensland. Considering that the typical new millennium student is enrolled full time and works 18 hours per week, when 40% of the sample (n=148) believes that, overall, the university does not cater well to students in paid employment, alarms must sound. These are consumers who work to study, then study to improve their work prospects, and they comprise approximately 50% of the Cairns Campus student population (2,625, from May 2005 census). Further, about one quarter of the students surveyed admit to barely coping with the technological requirements of being a university student 9 weeks into a 13-week semester. The conclusions here are serious, that JCU (at the very least) requires more effective means and media to cater for the needs of a growing number of students, both part time and full time, in paid employment. Ways to improve the degree of fit between the academy and working students, between students and technology, and between delivery of services and student uptake are suggested.
The prevalence and characteristics of online assessment in Australian universities
Authors: Byrnes Rod , Ellis Allan
Published: April 2016

Assessment is one of the key elements of the teaching and learning process. It provides teachers with a means of evaluating the quality of their instruction. Students also use it to drive and direct their learning. Online teaching and learning will continue to become more important to Australian universities in order for them to remain competitive and economically viable. In the online environment, assessment is no less critical than in traditional face to face environments. However, assessment risks being overlooked or at least marginalised in the rush to place course content online. This paper provides a snapshot of the prevalence and characteristics of online assessment in Australian universities during 2004. It highlights useful information regarding the use of online assessment in the university sector and illustrates that overall this crucial area is not being given the attention or resources it requires.
Modelling ICT integration in teacher education courses using distributed cognition as a framework
Authors: Steketee Carole
Published: April 2016

Teacher education students have a significant role to play in the sustained application of ICT in schools. It is imperative therefore, that they are exposed to effective use of ICT in their training. However, 'effective use' is subjective and existing characterisations of this construct appear to drive different ICT implementation plans adopted by teacher education institutions (Steketee, 2005). While most of these plans have achieved varying degrees of success, the 'integration approach', has been the most promising. By integrating ICT as a learning resource during regular classes, lecturers are exposing students to innovative ways of learning. This exposure, however, must be supported by a relevant implementation framework if the potential of ICT is to be realised. The distributed learning environment framework (DLE) provides this support as it gives lecturers insight into what their classroom context should look and feel like if they are to encourage students to access technology as powerful learning tools. The principles underlying the DLE are explored in this paper. The learning outcomes to emerge from its introduction of an electronic concept-mapping tool into a teacher-education program are also discussed. These outcomes suggest that the DLE is a valuable catalyst for the successful application of ICT in teacher training, and subsequently in schools.
Using ICQ to enhance teacher-student relationships
Authors: Shung King Yin , Trinidad Sue
Published: April 2016

This research investigated the use of computer mediated communication (CMC) tools to enhance teacher-student relationships in two secondary schools in Hong Kong. This study showed that ICQ (a most popular CMC tool) could be used to enhance teacher-student relationships in these cases. An ethnographic approach was used where the interviews were conducted with key informants, face to face (n=11) and then through ICQ (n=4). Teachers who used ICQ to communicate with students were also interviewed (n=4). It was found in this study that the school and the parents over-stressed academic achievement, with both teachers and students being required to spend most of their time on academic related matters, and as such the results were that teacher-student communication was found to be rare in the two school environments. The study was able to summarise why students prefer using ICQ to communicate with teachers, how the Confucian heritage culture affects teacher-student communication in Hong Kong schools, and how ICQ can be used to enhance teacher-student communication.
Rochester Castle MMORPG: Instructional gaming and collaborative learning at a Western Australian school
Authors: Lee Mark J.W. , Eustace Ken , Fellows Geoff , Bytheway Allan , Irving Leah
Published: April 2016

This paper reports on the first stage of a project to develop and test the use of massively multiplayer online role playing games (MMORPGs) for promoting computer supported collaborative learning through instructional gaming in the high school classroom. Teachers and students of English and Science at Swan View Senior High School, Western Australia were involved in a pilot study as "proof of concept", in which they participated in both game design and game play within a MOO based collaborative virtual environment with a medieval castle theme.
The pedagogical and multimedia designs of learning objects for schools
Authors: Haughey Margaret , Muirhead Bill
Published: April 2016

While much has been written about learning objects, the focus of discussion has been on standards, theoretical principles or post-secondary applications. Little has been published about the issues of the K-12 sector. From the literature, interactivity and scaffolding are the two pedagogical aspects considered crucial to learning object design. In multimedia design, writers have focused on engagement, persistence and success in simulation, gaming, narrative and experiential situations. Using these criteria we examined the pedagogical and multimedia design features in 35 K-10 learning objects produced by The Le@rning Federation. Objects which met the learning and multimedia design criteria had clear objectives, multiple activities, high interactivity, learner choice and an extensive scaffolding interface behind the main design. Research on the use of learning objects by teachers and students is recommended as the next step.