Variations in Students’ Learning Habits and Behavior Patterns in Light of the Technological Innovations and Connectivist Theory of Learning

Abstract

The “Tsunami "of spread of knowledge and modern technological means led to the emergence of new mental skills and modes of learning among learners. Consequently, students’ learning was affected by the new knowledge networks. As such, this study aimed at investigating the change in the learning habits of learners in light of the technological development, and to study the impact of digital instruments and applications on the development/change of the learners’ study habits. The study utilized a qualitative approach with a descriptive analytical design, where semi-structured interviews were created and conducted with three age groups: three adult learners who studied before technological development, five secondary school students, and four tertiary university students. Research results revealed the persistence of some traditional learning habits among school students, the development of study habits linked to modern technological means, and the development of modern technical skills such as Internet search. Some factors affecting learning habits appeared; specifically, the nature of the study task, teaching strategies, and student specialization. Some digital skills have been diagnosed for each category, like online searching skills, staying connected to networks, communication skills, the skills of self-organization, and the control of smart devices. In light of its findings, the study ended up with a set of recommendations for future research, and other recommendations for practice. Keywords: Learning habits, connectivism, digital learners, learning skills, learning instruments.