The purpose of the current study is to collect pre- and post-experiential data on the student’s perceptions of using emerging technologies in 2 online courses. We examined the student’s previous online experiences or expectations of an online course and compared that with their experiences in the courses that will use emerging technologies. The intent is to measure whether or not these technologies improved student engagement.
According to Blessinger and Wankel (2012, p. 3), “Advancements in both digital technologies and learning theories are transforming the way we teach and learn...” Biggs (2003), advocates deep learning where the process “entails active and devoted engagement with rigorous, high-quality learning activities that is also enjoyable and interesting for the learner.” Indeed, “the idea that student learning is strongly and positively associated with student engagement in the classroom is strongly supported in educational literatures” (Molinari and Huonker, 2010).
To develop a model of student satisfaction in an online classroom environment, we posited two key attributes for effective online learning: (a) positive perceptions of technology (Drennan, 2005), and interest in course engagement. “Accreditation bodies like AACSB are recognizing that ‘students have an obligation to actively participate in their educational experiences.’ Further, AACSB asserts that “without the intentional engagement of students little if any learning will take place” (Molinari and Huonker, 2010).
Following the logic that ‘high quality learning activities will stimulate engagement we included:
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Course and LMS Scavenger Hunt
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Audio Prezi of the Syllabus
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Windows Movie Maker Course Introduction
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Facebook Groups
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Desktop videos for application assignments
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Integration of Soft Chalk modules to provide interactive content
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Prezi videos in place of Power Points
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Online videos from the Library’s collection of NBC News for HigherEd
To measure whether the two key attributes of engaged learning were indeed included, students were asked about their general perceptions of online courses. With 89% of the student’s having already taken an online course, they responded to the questions about online learning experiences very positively; indicating they expected to learn much, be highly engaged, and have active opportunities to communicate with the instructor.
