bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual differences and technology attributes: An examination of educational technology considerations related to trade and industry training
Authors: Bird Mavis , Gill Gerald
Published: April 2016

This paper focuses on one of the major components of educational technology - instructional design. The paper deals with an examination of aspects of technology and learning which may have implications for future directions and developments in educational technology. It describes a study which examined the relationship between training technologies (computer and print) and individual learner differences (visual and haptic cognitive styles), in assisting learners' retention of information presented visually.
The effectiveness of using instructional objectives with less able secondary school pupils
Authors: Guat Teo Boon , Teh George P. L.
Published: April 2016

This study examines the effects of providing less able lower secondary geography pupils with written instructional objectives prior to instruction. Since 1983, teachers in Singapore schools have been writing instructional objectives to guide themselves in their teaching. This study goes one step further to try to answer the question To utilise fully the instructional objectives which teachers have written, can they make use of them to help pupils improve their learning? This study specifically addresses the Normal stream pupils who are academically less able and who require the most guidance and assistance. The results indicated that (i) the use of instructional objectives as an instructional strategy does seem to enhance learning for less able secondary school pupils, (ii) when presented with instructional objectives as an aid to learning, boys appear to benefit more than girls. The implications of these findings are discussed.
Ed Tech: Now a horse of a different colour?
Authors: Unwin Derick
Published: April 2016

Educational technology (edtech) embraces a variety of concepts, but is probably adequately characterised as pedagogic innovation in the area of media and methods. Such innovations have regularly occurred over the years, and have invariably been accompanied by extravagant claims of effectiveness and potential for change. In due course these innovations lose their momentum and cease to occupy the centre stage of education. This article attempts a brief sardonic review of edtech and suggests that at last we are coming into possession of tools which would permit the restructuring of education, so as to actually achieve aims rather than pay lip service to them. However, such outcomes will not arise out of any supposed improvement in media and methods, but through organisational and curriculum changes made possible by the advent of the microcomputer and peripherals.
Evaluating types of students' interactions in a wiki-based collaborative learning project
Authors: Prokofieva Maria
Published: April 2016

Wiki technology has been promoted as a collaborative software platform. This study investigates interactions that occur in a wiki-based collaborative learning project. The study draws on interaction literature and investigates the types of interactions with which students are engaged in wiki-based group projects, clusters that reflect online interaction patterns and factors that affect students' interaction. The study employs a quantitative approach (principal component analysis, cluster analysis and Kruskal-Wallis test) and a qualitative approach (interviews). The results show that students' interactions online were of two types, student-content and student-student, with student-content interaction being dominant. An increase in online interaction was driven mainly by an increase in student-content interaction, while student-student interaction increased to a certain level and then stayed the same. The study also discusses factors that influenced both types of interaction and suggests guidelines on how student-student interaction can be encouraged.

 
 
The role of consortia in educational broadcasting
Authors: Martin John
Published: April 2016

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Radio-modem project
Authors: Srivastava Dinesh , Pollet Jim , Moore Bram
Published: April 2016

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Evaluating LOGO: Use of the SOLO Taxonomy
Authors: Hawkins Wayne , Hedberg John G.
Published: April 2016

This article highlights the problem for researchers and classroom teachers who use LOGO and who wish to maintain a free exploratory classroom atmosphere, yet evaluate student responses in a disciplined and systematic manner. The Solo Taxonomy is put forward as a useful and effective way to overcome this problem. The various levels of the Solo Taxonomy are discussed and examples of LOGO procedures from students' work are provided to illustrate each of the levels.
Realising the potential of interactive videodisc for education
Authors: Hosie Peter
Published: April 2016

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Human-computer interaction and CAI: A review and research prospectus
Authors: Hedberg John G. , Perry Neil R.
Published: April 2016

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How media materials are used in university instruction: Reports of selected university faculty members
Authors: Russel Anne L.
Published: April 2016

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The Luria model of information processing
Authors: Angus John
Published: April 2016

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Distance education or education at a distance
Authors: Rixon Paul
Published: April 2016

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Videomicroscopy in the classroom
Authors: Richardson Gary
Published: April 2016

Videomicroscopy is a technique which is becoming increasingly available to education. This article describes the various media used in conjunction with the microscope in practical classes and discusses the potential of videomicroscopy as an alternative in the light of the limitations of the present technologies.
Teacher generated research in educational technology
Authors: McNamara Sue
Published: April 2016

A growing number of teachers with little or no expertise in educational technology are becoming involved with technology in the classroom. Consequently there is an increasing awareness by teachers of the need to examine the facilities and effectiveness of the technology. The purpose of this article is to illustrate the potential of teacher generated research in educational technology.
Implementing a flipped classroom approach in postgraduate education: An unexpected journey into pedagogical redesign
Authors: Howitt Christine , Pegrum Mark
Published: April 2016

This paper describes the implementation of a flipped approach by two lecturers teaching different postgraduate education courses at an Australian university. Case studies, written as chronological stories, were developed with data collected from email correspondence between the two lecturers as critical friends, as well as from student feedback in the form of face-to-face discussions, online discussions, emails, mind maps, multimodal discussion boards and end-of-semester university surveys. Over a period of 2 years, both lecturers moved from an initial focus on technology and organisation to a focus on pedagogy, while coming to see themselves as (re-)designers of learning. Technologically, the need for time to select and learn to work with appropriate software emerged as a key theme. Organisationally, the need for time to plan and to identify lecturer expectations of students emerged as key themes. Pedagogically, a shift occurred towards a listening pedagogy on the part of the lecturers, and towards more active and engaged learning on the part of the students. It was found necessary to ensure a close fit between what to present in flipped mode, what to do in class time, and how to assess students formatively and summatively.
Design and evaluation of an online tool for open learning with blogs
Authors: Põldoja Hans , Duval Erik , Leinonen Teemu
Published: April 2016

Blogs are used in higher education to support face-to-face courses, to organise online courses, and to open up courses for a wider group of participants. However the open and distributed nature of blogs creates problems that are not common in other learning contexts. Four key challenges related to the use of blogs in learning were identified from earlier research: fragmented discussions, a lack of coordination structures, weak support for awareness, and a danger of over-scripting. The EduFeedr system has been designed to address these issues. In this paper, the authors present their evaluation of its design and effectiveness in a total of 10 courses. The results indicate that learners find the EduFeedr system useful in following discussions and in comparing their progress with other learners. The coordination and awareness issues are seen as more important than the fragmentation of discussions and a danger of over-scripting.
Computer based training in the commercial sector
Authors: Perry Neil R. , Hemstrich Jane S.
Published: April 2016

This paper presents an interpretation of computer based training in the commercial sector in Australia. It outlines a number of issues that organisations considering the application of computer based training might consider. These issues include the selection of systems, administrative matters, in house issues and learning principles.
Enhancing an instructional design model for virtual reality-based learning
Authors: Chen Chwen Jen , Teh Chee Siong
Published: April 2016

In order to effectively utilize the capabilities of virtual reality (VR) in supporting the desired learning outcomes, careful consideration in the design of instruction for VR learning is crucial. In line with this concern, previous work proposed an instructional design model that prescribes instructional methods to guide the design of VR-based learning environments. This article provides a thorough elaboration on how formative research is employed to enhance the earlier model. The study has successfully generated five new hypothesized principles to enhance the robustness of the instructional design model through the formative research process. The newly derived hypothesized principles also provide insights into the design of various experimental studies for testing them in the effort to form a more comprehensive guide for the design of VR-based learning environments.

 
Editorial 31(1)
Authors: Henderson Michael , Bennett Sue , Dalgarno Barney
Published: April 2016

In this editorial we explain the shift of AJET towards early release of articles. This means that as soon as articles have been accepted for publication and have been copyedited and typeset they will be made available online. Early release allows us to disseminate research into the public domain more rapidly, and thereby more effectively serve our authors and readers. Importantly, this does not reduce the rigor of our peer-review or copyediting processes, but does make the journal more current for our readers, and more appealing to authors who want their research to be in the public domain as efficiently as possible.
Conjecture mapping to optimize the educational design research process
Authors: Wozniak Helen
Published: April 2016

While educational design research promotes closer links between practice and theory, reporting its outcomes from iterations across multiple contexts is often constrained by the volumes of data generated, and the context bound nature of the research outcomes. Reports tend to focus on a single iteration of implementation without further research to determine the generalisability of the outcomes to new contexts. This paper outlines a retrospective analytical approach used to capture the significant design features of an online orientation resource implemented in one university context, and then adapted for further exploration, design and evaluation at a second contrasting university. The educational problem studied was how to support health science students to overcome barriers of transitioning to online distance study. A conjecture mapping process aligned to the three phases of educational design research provided a framework to review the outcomes at the first university. This guided the research at the second university, including choice of the data sources during implementation. This process enabled the researcher to undertake a comparative analysis and evaluate the extent of generalisability of the resource to the second university, leading to refined design principles and a framework that illustrates the student transition process.
Professional learning in higher education: Understanding how academics interpret student feedback and access resources to improve their teaching
Authors: Curwood Jen Scott , Tomitsch Martin , Thomson Kate , Hendry Graham
Published: April 2016

Previous research on professional learning has identified that face-to-face consultation is an effective approach to support academics’ learning from student feedback. However, this approach is labour and time intensive, and does not necessarily provide all academics with just-in-time support. In this article, we describe an alternative approach, which involves the creation of Ask Charlie, a mobile website that visually represents results from student evaluation of teaching (SET), and provides academics with personalised recommendations for teaching resources. Ask Charlie was developed and evaluated by drawing on design-based research methods with the aim to support professional learning within higher education. A semester-long evaluation of the website led to recommendations for improving the effectiveness and value of online, personalised, and interactive resources for academics. While Ask Charlie offered access to a valuable teaching resource portal, it was crucial that its design took into account time as well as timing in terms of supporting professional learning. Our findings suggest that future development of the website could include additional features to encourage reflection and communication as well as promote alignment with existing professional development strategies across the university.
Re-designing university courses to support collaborative knowledge creation practices
Authors: Lakkala Minna , Toom Auli , Ilomäki Liisa , Muukkonen Hanni
Published: April 2016

Higher education institutions should not only aim to educate academic experts who master their own fields, but also give their students generic skills important in contemporary society. New teaching methods are required to support the development of such skills. The study examined how a group of voluntary university lecturers re-designed their courses by applying theory-based pedagogical design principles emphasising object-oriented, collaborative knowledge creation supported by digital technology. The primary data consisted of lecturer interviews and students’ written post-evaluations from three courses. The re-designed courses included broader thematic assignments, more cumulative knowledge production in groups and more diverse use of technology than prior course iterations. Both the lecturers and students addressed the learning outcomes in positive terms, but collaborative knowledge production was more evident in two courses designed according to authentic professional practices. Students generally valued the working methods, although they also pointed out weaknesses in the tasks, course structuring and group work. The lecturers experienced some difficulties in guiding students’ productive group work. The pedagogical design principles worked well as conceptual tools in the intervention process, but they should be complemented with recommendations for teachers on modelling authentic professional practices and methods of scaffolding students’ collaborative knowledge creation efforts.
e-Portfolios enhancing students’ self-directed learning: A systematic review of influencing factors
Authors: Beckers Jorrick , Dolmans Diana , Van Merriënboer Jeroen
Published: April 2016

e-Portfolios have become increasingly popular among educators as learning tools. Some research even shows that e-portfolios can be utilised to facilitate the development of skills for self-directed learning. Such skills include self-assessment of performance, formulation of learning goals, and selection of future tasks. However, it is not yet clear under which conditions e-portfolios optimally facilitate the development of these skills. We conducted a systematic review aimed at identifying and understanding influences on the development of self-directed learning with an e-portfolio. Inclusion criteria were used to select recent, high quality studies that focused on e-portfolios and reported an influence on self-directed learning. There were 17 articles that met the inclusion criteria. Institutional factors, curriculum factors, learning process factors, personal factors, and portfolio factors were identified. Portfolios are used most effectively when faculty development aimed at supervising self-directed learning skills development is provided, when the portfolio is integrated into the educational routine, when teachers coach students regularly, when scaffolding is applied to increase motivation, and when the portfolio is designed to facilitate at least goal-setting, task-analysis, plan implementation, and self-evaluation.
How do virtual world experiences bring about learning? A critical review of theories
Authors: Loke Swee-Kin
Published: April 2016

While students do learn real-world knowledge and skills in virtual worlds, educators have yet to adequately theorise how students’ virtual world experiences bring about this learning. This paper critically reviewed theories currently used to underpin empirical work in virtual worlds for education. In particular, it evaluated how applicable these theories’ learning mechanisms are to virtual world-based learning. Eleven theories were identified from 80 journal papers. Four learning mechanisms were found to be applicable to virtual worlds: that students learn through reflection, verbal interactions, mental operations, and vicarious experiences. However, one commonly-implied learning mechanism was found to be inapplicable to virtual worlds: that students undergo a physical sensorimotor experience of the real-world phenomenon through their virtual world actions. An alternative theory is needed to explain how students’ virtual world actions might bring about learning, so as to help educators determine what exactly students can learn by performing virtual world actions.
In search of design principles for developing digital learning & performance support for a student design task
Authors: Bollen Lars , Van der Meij Hans , Leemkuil Henny , McKenney Susan
Published: April 2016

A digital learning and performance support environment for university student design tasks was developed. We describe the design rationale, process, and the usage results to arrive at a core set of design principles for the construction of such an environment and present a collection of organisational, technical, and course-related requirements that led to the particular setup of the targeted environment. Building upon the established learning management system Moodle, we designed a backbone structure that fitted onto the analysis, synthesis, construction, and evaluation intervention model. Within these four phases, students were able to find activity checklists, tools, and information to support their design activities. The environment was supplemented with tools for group communication and collaborative report writing. It has been used for 5 weeks by 35 students who worked in groups on a design task. We analysed the students’ appraisals for usability and examined usage data from their action logs. Results indicate that students were positive about the environment and generally used its facilities frequently. The discussion revolves around the issue of how to achieve a balance between constraints, freedom, and scaffolding. A set of design principles is proposed for the construction of future versions of a learning and performance support environment.
Putting technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) in action: An integrated TPACK-design-based learning (DBL) approach
Authors: Baran Evrim , Uygun Erdem
Published: April 2016

Design-based learning (DBL) has been considered a useful approach in teacher education because of its emphasis on the investigation of technology integration problems in design processes. Despite recent interest in understanding how technological, pedagogical, and content knowledge (TPACK) translates to action, limited research exists on how TPACK is developed within DBL contexts and what principles of DBL can be applied to TPACK development. To address these critical gaps in the literature, an approach was developed that outlined eight DBL principles that foster understanding of TPACK-in-action in teacher education contexts. Next, a graduate course was designed to determine how course activities facilitated understanding of TPACK-in-action and to what extent students enacted TPACK-DBL principles. Following a case study methodology, data were collected from 10 graduate students through reflection reports, design guides, and researcher observation notes. The analysis of qualitative and descriptive data revealed that as a result of TPACK-DBL activities, students developed a four-dimensional understanding of TPACK-in-action: theory-practice connection, readiness for practice, technological proficiency, and sustainable learning of TPACK. The results offer recommendations to teacher educators for developing understanding of TPACK-in-action through DBL activities.
Benefits, challenges, and perceptions of the multiple article dissertation format in instructional technology
Authors: Thomas Rebecca Arlene , West Richard E , Rich Peter
Published: April 2016

This study used survey data to investigate the benefits, challenges, perceptions, and current practices of the multiple article dissertation format in instructional technology. Online surveys were sent to current students, alumni, faculty, and department representatives of instructional technology programs, and data were analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods. The surveys found that alumni who completed multiple article format dissertations received more citations for their dissertations than those who completed traditional dissertations, showing that the multiple article format can increase the likelihood of impact. Additionally, respondents reported that multiple article dissertation formats facilitate authenticity and collaboration and prepare students for a career in academia. However, some participants perceived the multiple article format to be less rigorous than traditional dissertations, with ambiguous requirements and expectations of quality. More research is needed in order to understand current practices for multiple article dissertation formats in instructional technology.
Understanding the use of interactive whiteboards in primary science
Authors: Sweeney Trudy
Published: April 2016

This paper explores the dimensions of change experienced by a specialist primary science teacher in Australia as she attempted to embed an interactive whiteboard into her practice as a tool to enhance interactive teaching and learning. This paper uses the theoretical frameworks of activity theory and the stages of concern to understand the behavioural and affective dimensions of change related to the use of interactive whiteboards in primary science. It is argued that the identification and resolution of tensions and concerns in teachers' practice is crucial to maximise the potential of interactive whiteboards to enhance learning interactions in a shared dialogic space.
Evolving technologies require educational policy change: Music education for the 21st century
Authors: Crawford Renee
Published: April 2016

There is growing discussion among education and government authorities on rethinking education in the 21st century. This increasing area of interest has come in response to the evolution of technology and its effect on the future needs and requirements of society. Online applications and social networking capabilities have accelerated in popularity, revealing their potential. The recognised benefits of technology for the use of music education have resulted in collaborative projects and learning and teaching that is not constricted by walls or location. Music education can be accessible to all young people through a combination of social media, blogging and interactive creative musical activities to engage students in all locations, including rural and remote areas. In this 21st century classroom, music education includes online resources, digital learning, in-school workshops, online master classes and live concert streaming where a range of musical styles are explored. This article explores the learning and teaching outcomes of Project Music X, an online music education project designed to fill an important gap in the provision of music education programs in regional and remote schools using a range of web 2.0 technologies. Technology in this context does not only align with the thinking of young people, but also provides a platform for students in remote and rural areas to engage with high quality music education and performance experiences that they would otherwise not have access to.
Students' engagement with Facebook in a university undergraduate policing unit
Authors: Staines Zoe , Lauchs Mark
Published: April 2016

Web 2.0 technologies are increasingly being used to support teaching in higher education courses. However, preliminary research has shown that students are using such technologies primarily for social purposes, rather than as a means of further engaging with academic content. This study examines a cohort of tertiary students' use of a Facebook page, which was created for a second year university policing unit at the Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia. Results from content analysis of the Facebook "wall" and a survey of student users and non-users showed that although students only demonstrated very little active engagement with academic content posted on the site (that is, they were reluctant to interact with unit materials in a way that would leave a digital trace), they reported that Facebook had increased their ability to engage with and critically analyse the unit content. In alignment with other research in this area, students also reported the usefulness of the Facebook page for increasing communication with their peers and with the teaching staff. This paper concludes by offering a number of best practice guidelines for the use of Facebook in tertiary education.

 
Factors affecting pre-service teachers’ participation in asynchronous discussion: The case of Iran
Authors: Ebrahimi Alice , Faghih Esmail , Marandi Seyyedeh Susan
Published: April 2016

This study reports on a qualitative small-scale exploratory study which examined the factors influencing 32 Iranian pre-service language teachers’ participation in online asynchronous text-based discussion forums. By adopting a multiple case study design and analysing data gathered through semi-structured interviews and participants’ online postings, it was found that access to computers and the Internet or high speed Internet, group size, quality of messages, level of instructor’s involvement, grades, interface qualities, participants’ personal characteristics and attitudes toward online interactions, as well as familiarity and experience with online discussions influenced participants’ level of participation in online discussions. Based on the findings, recommendations are made to help language teacher educators to encourage effective online communication practices in similar educational settings.
Exploring the TPACK of Taiwanese secondary school science teachers using a new contextualized TPACK model
Authors: Jang Syh-Jong , Tsai Meng-Fang
Published: April 2016

Technological pedagogical and content knowledge (TPACK) has been one of the steering theoretical concepts widely employed by researchers in order to examine and develop teachers' knowledge of integrating technology into teaching. Existing research on TPACK shows little about in-service secondary school science teachers' TPACK through a quantitative approach. The purposes of this study were to explore TPACK of secondary school science teachers using a new contextualized TPACK model. Associations between in-service teachers' TPACK and other factors were also examined. The TPACK questionnaire was mailed to secondary schools randomly selected across different parts of Taiwan, and return envelopes were provided for completed questionnaires. There were 1292 science teachers from secondary schools for factor analysis. An independent samples t-test was conducted when there were two groups (i.e., gender) to be compared for TPACK. ANOVA was conducted when there were more than two groups (i.e., science teaching experience) compared for TPACK. The results indicated that secondary science teachers' TPACK was statistically significant according to gender and teaching experience. With the consideration of other TPACK sub-components, male science teachers rated their technology knowledge significantly higher than did female teachers. Experienced science teachers tended to rate their content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge in context (PCKCx) significantly higher than did novice science teachers. However, science teachers with less teaching experience tended to rate their technology knowledge and technological content knowledge in context (TPCKCx) significantly higher than did teachers with more teaching experience. The study shows how gender and teaching experience were influential factors for secondary school science teachers' TPACK. The research implications of this study are provided along with suggestions.

 
 
The iPod Touch in association with other technologies in support of a community of inquiry in off-campus teacher education
Authors: Walta Caroline , Nicholas Howard
Published: April 2016

Hand-held technologies are pervasive and convenient in everyday use, but less commonly associated with the delivery of teacher education programs. This has implications for the way graduate teachers view the challenge of utilising these devices once they become classroom teachers, as pre-service teachers generally associate these devices with social rather than educational uses. However, as current learning theory research focuses on the importance of connected communities, the increasing take-up of online and blended learning programs brings with it an imperative to utilise technologies in ways which both support communities of inquiry and empower technology users to be creative. The paper explores the journey of a group of educators and members of a cohort of 65 pre-service teachers undertaking a one-year, graduate level pre-service teaching course in a blended learning environment managed from a regional campus of an Australian university. The learning environment is enabled through the iPod Touch and a range of other technologies. The use of the iPod Touch together with the associated technologies enabled both a Community of Inquiry to be established and improved familiarity with the potential for the iPod (or by extension the iPad) to enhance teaching in schools.
Educational design research: Signs of progress
Authors: Reeves Thomas C
Published: April 2016

This special issue of the Australasian Journal of Educational Technology includes an introductory article by the guest editors and six papers that illustrate the potential of educational design research (EDR) to address important problems in higher education. In this final paper, reflections on the papers are made. Then the rationale for conducting EDR instead of media comparison studies is described with a concrete example. This paper concludes with a proposal for expanding educational design research through the establishment of consortia of collaborating researchers, practitioners, and funding agencies focused on the most salient challenges faced in education today.
Interactivity with the interactive whiteboard in traditional and innovative primary schools: An exploratory study
Authors: De Koster Sandra , Volman Monique , Kuiper Els
Published: April 2016

One of the main affordances of the interactive whiteboard (IWB) is its potential for increasing classroom interactivity, yet little is known about the interactivity it supports in schools with different educational concepts. In this study we analysed what types of whole-class interactivity the IWB supports in schools with either a traditional or an innovative school concept. Interactivity was operationalized in terms of operation of the IWB, control of the IWB content, and the whole-class dialogue. A cross-case analysis of videotaped lesson observations revealed patterns in the interactivity related to school type. Comparison of the prevalent interactivity patterns at the two school types shows that students at the innovative schools had a more active role in the content of the IWB-supported lessons than those at the traditional schools. The students at the traditional schools operated the IWB more often, which coincided, however, with little or no student control of the IWB content and with whole-class dialogue that focused on knowledge transmission. At the innovative schools the active student role regarding lesson content did not coincide with student operation of the IWB. These findings indicate a link between the school's educational concept and the type of interactivity in IWB-supported lessons.

 
Editorial 32(1)
Authors: Dalgarno Barney , Henderson Michael , Heinrich Eva
Published: April 2016

In this editorial we provide updated bibliometric data to provide readers with information about the journal’s publication, review and article access statistics, the articles attracting the most interest over the past year and the citation performance of the journal. We also introduce the diverse papers contained within the issue and welcome a new editorial team member.
So the kids are busy, what now? Teacher perceptions of the use of hand-held game consoles in West Australian primary classrooms
Authors: O'Rourke John , Main Susan , Ellis Michelle
Published: April 2016

Games technology in the form of hand-held game consoles (HGCs) when focussed on specific academic skill development has the capacity to engage students in learning and in turn produce positive academic results. This current research explores teacher perceptions of the implementation of HGCs to enhance the development of mental maths skills (namely the recall of single digit addition, subtraction and multiplication sums) in nine Year 4 classrooms and, through a series of structured interviews and observations, categorises these educators in terms of their role in the classroom. It was hypothesised that the teaching style would impact on the student's motivation and engagement when using the HGCs, however, it became evident that by maintaining set classroom structures the HGCs appeared to have the capacity to engage and motivate students, regardless of the approach of the teacher.

 
Personal learning environments and university teacher roles explored using Delphi
Authors: Shaikh Zaffar Ahmed , Khoja Shakeel Ahmed
Published: April 2016

This paper presents the results of research using an online Delphi method, which aimed to explore university teacher roles and readiness for learner-centred pedagogy, driven by personal learning environments (PLEs). Using a modified Policy Delphi technique, a group of researchers worked with 34 international experts who are university teachers by profession, but who are currently associated with PLEs as PLE-practising teachers, researchers, and developers. A questionnaire based on the relevant literature published between 2006 and 2012 was developed to serve the panel as the starting point for the Delphi debate. This questionnaire sought Delphi experts’ consensus on the names and task descriptions of 36 university teacher roles categorized into five core competencies. During the three rounds of this study, the experts changed the names of many roles and modified their task descriptions. The study concluded by identifying the 28 roles on which the Delphi panel was able to reach a consensus. The results also revealed that the university teacher today is ready to carry out the new roles suggested by this study.

 
Exploring tablet PC lectures: Lecturer experiences and student perceptions in biomedicine
Authors: Choate Julia , Kotsanas George , Dawson Phillip
Published: April 2016

Lecturers using tablet PCs with specialised pens can utilise real-time changes in lecture delivery via digital inking. We investigated student perceptions and lecturer experiences of tablet PC lectures in large-enrolment biomedicine subjects. Lecturers used PowerPoint or Classroom Presenter software for lecture preparation and in-lecture pen-based inking. Using surveys and lecturer interviews, students and lecturers were asked to reflect on their tablet PC lectures in comparison to non-tablet lectures that used prepared images and a laser pointer. Quantitative survey responses suggested that students felt that the tablet lectures were more interesting, that they were more capable of keeping up with the lecturer, and they enhanced their understanding of the lecture content. Qualitative analysis of written comments indicated that students appreciated the real-time writing and drawings, particularly because these were visible on lecture recordings. When reflecting on their non-tablet lectures, most lecturers used the pen-based writing, drawing and highlighting tablet functions and reduced lecture pace and content for their tablet lectures.  Long-term tablet use led to lecturers making more use of digital inking, with less use of prepared images. Our results support the idea that tablet PC-supported lectures are conducive to improved management of cognitive load via reduced lecture pace and content.

 
Educational technology training workshops for mathematics teachers: An exploration of perception changes
Authors: Lau Wilfred Wing Fat , Yuen Allan Hoi Kau
Published: April 2016

This study examined the effects of educational technology training workshops on perception changes of mathematics teachers. Three perceptions, namely, pedagogical orientation, efficacy, and liking in relation to technology integration, were explored in this study. Two research questions were addressed: Do educational technology training workshops affect teachers' perceptions of technology integration? What are the factors that influence changes of teachers' perceptions? The findings indicated that: (a) there were general effects of training on perception changes in pedagogical orientation and efficacy and (b) instructor, teachers' characteristics, pre-workshop experience, and workshop evaluation were significant factors influencing perception changes. While the overall findings mirrored those of previous studies examining teachers' beliefs about and attitudes towards technology integration in education, this study found that, compared with the younger mathematics teachers, the senior mathematics teachers' perceived efficacy increased but not their beliefs about the educational benefits of using technology after training. This suggests that the usual strategy of "one size fits all" does not appear to work and a more teacher-based training model is deemed necessary to engage all teachers in technology integration in education.
The influence of collaborative learning games within different devices on student’s learning performance and behaviours
Authors: Hsiao Hsien-Sheng , Chang Cheng-Sian , Lin Chien-Yu , Chang Chih-Chun , Chen Jyun-Chen
Published: April 2016

This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using multi-touch tabletop collaborative game (MTCG) as a collaborative learning platform, in which multiple students can play games using a digital surface. The learning performance of participants is also explored, along with their related behaviours and their experiences. Consisting of 49 Taipei elementary school fifth graders ranging from 11 to 12 years old, the study participants came from two classes taught by the same teacher. The class assigned as the experimental group used large multi-touch tabletops, while the other class assigned as the control group used personal computers. Analysis results indicated that the experimental group more significantly improved in learning performance and retention than the control group did. Moreover, learning behaviour results of the participants further indicated that the experimental group achieved a better behaviour transfer and more meaningful cyclical learning patterns than the control group did. Importantly, by bridging the gap between digital game-based learning and collaborative learning, this study provides evidence of novel and engaging experiences when using a multi-player, multi-modal tabletop display.
Learning in Facebook: First year tertiary student reflections from 2008 to 2011
Authors: McCarthy Josh
Published: April 2016

This paper reflects on the use of Facebook as an online learning environment for first year design students from 2008 to 2011. Between 2008 and 2010 three student cohorts from the University of Adelaide engaged with their peers through forums hosted by Facebook, submitting work-in-progress imagery and critiquing peers' submissions. In 2011 the study expanded to include national and international collaborators with first year cohorts from Swinburne University in Australia, and Nanyang Technological University in Singapore also participating, allowing students to interact with their global peers. The online forum facilitated increased peer interaction, particularly between local and international students, and improved academic performance as a result of consistent feedback from a range of sources. At the end of 2011 students from the four participating cohorts between 2008 and 2011 were invited to take part in a survey reflecting on and evaluating the learning experiences in Facebook. The results highlighted many positive outcomes regarding the online forum, and have led to the establishment of a series of recommendations for the future use of Facebook as a learning tool, outlined at the conclusion of this paper.

 
An empirical examination of individual and system characteristics on enhancing e-learning acceptance
Authors: Lee Yi-Hsuan , Hsiao Chan , Purnomo Sutrisno Hadi
Published: April 2016

Due to the continued prevalence of e-learning underutilization in Indonesia’s higher education context, this study empirically examines individual and system characteristics believed to influence students’ acceptance of e-learning systems. The proposed research model is developed to examine the influence of five characteristics of the Technology Acceptance Model using the Structural Equation Modelling technique. This study found that both individual characteristics, computer self-efficacy and internet self-efficacy, play an important role, indirectly affecting perceived intention to use e-learning. The system characteristics including learning content and technology accessibility have been found to significantly influence learners’ acceptance behaviours. Both perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness were found to be significant predictors of perceived intention to use. Additionally, perceived usefulness was found to have more predictive power than perceived ease of use on behavioural intention to use. This study contributes to a better understanding of how to enhance e-learning acceptance through improvement in individual and system characteristics.

 
Users’ perspectives on tour-guide training courses using 3D tourist sites
Authors: Chen Yu-Fen , Mo Huai-en
Published: April 2016

Taiwan is currently attempting to develop itself into a twenty-first century tourist hub to take advantage of today’s thriving global tourism economy. In the coming years, Taiwan anticipates an urgent demand for tour guides, and there is a clear need for training solutions that can serve a rapidly growing population. Computer-mediated virtual 3D situated tourist sites (3D-STS) may provide an efficient solution. This study investigates users’ perspectives on a specially developed tour-guide training course employing 3D-STS technology. After participants completed the course, their responses to a survey questionnaire and follow-up interviews were compiled for statistical analysis. The results indicated that the overall experience of 3D-STS was satisfactory for trainees and showed a significant difference in the perspectives on 3D-STS of male and female trainees. However, one essential limitation of the study, that is, insufficient familiarity with the multiple advanced technologies, must be acknowledged. This could be a major obstacle for some users, interfering with their ability to access and process e-learning content. For more effective training outcomes for tour guides, the dynamic nature of 3D-STS as well as the characteristics of course content for tour guides should be considered carefully.

 
Social presence and motivation in a three-dimensional virtual world: An explanatory study
Authors: Yilmaz Rabia M. , Topu F. Burcu , Goktas Yuksel , Coban Murat
Published: April 2016

Three-dimensional (3-D) virtual worlds differ from other learning environments in their similarity to real life, providing opportunities for more effective communication and interaction. With these features, 3-D virtual worlds possess considerable potential to enhance learning opportunities. For effective learning, the users' motivation levels and social presence are important. In this study, the motivation and social presence levels of 42 prospective teachers were measured as they engaged in an Open Simulator 3-D virtual world. Related factors affecting motivation and social presence levels were also examined. An explanatory mixed method design was used in this study. Interviews and three different questionnaires were employed. The quantitative results show that the motivation and social presence levels of the participants were high. The qualitative results also revealed several pertinent factors that are related to motivation and social presence. These factors, which include the particular environment and participant satisfaction, clearly affected motivation while the participants were learning new information. Other factors, such as being relaxed, effective communications, and not feeling lonely in the environment affected the social presence measures. Lastly, the participants perceived the environment as warm and sociable. The results suggest that these factors should be taken into account when 3-D virtual learning environments are being designed.

 
Middle-school students' online information problem solving behaviors on the information retrieval interface
Authors: Yeh Yi-Fen , Hsu Ying-Shao , Chuang Fu-Tai , Hwang Fu-Kwun
Published: April 2016

With the near-overload of online information, it is necessary to equip our students with the skills necessary to deal with Information Problem Solving (IPS). This study also intended to help students develop major IPS strategies with the assistance of an instructor's scaffolding in a designed IPS course as well as on an Online Information Management (OIM) interface. Explicit strategies that students employed to organize information for final projects were identified and hierarchically leveled based on the cognitive complexity they required. Results from a correlation analysis showed a significantly positive relationship among students' project scores, IPS strategies (e.g. organizing information in a logical way), and explicit strategies (e.g. search terms), but no significant relationship involving implicit strategies. Further examinations showed the students with higher project scores had  advanced IPS and implicit strategies, while those with intermediate or lower scores likely over- or under-estimated their utilisation of implicit strategies. That is, self-efficacy surveys can be discriminative instruments if students have good self-monitoring abilities. Another feature of the students with high proficiency on IPS was the use of full sentences when using search engines, which implied less demands for the exactitude in search term selection due to the advances of search engines.

 