Impacts of engagement on academic outcomes in technology-enhanced learning

Abstract

Engagement is essential for improving academic outcomes, especially in technology-enhanced learning (TEL) environments where self-regulated learning is critical. This study investigated the longitudinal impacts of different levels of engagement on undergraduate students’ short-term and long-term academic outcomes in TEL. Using a learning analytics and learning management system (LMS) log data obtained from a large university blended course, the research (1) identified six key TEL engagement variables, (2) clustered students into four distinct learning profiles based on different levels of TEL engagement, and (3) tracked their summative assessment scores over a term. Material access, formative quiz attempts, and system logins were significant predictors of course performance. The results revealed that TEL differences among student groups, initially minor, expanded over the term, and finally significantly impacted the final exam scores, with highly engaged undergraduates achieving better outcomes. The findings highlight the long-term benefits of fostering TEL or academic success.