Virtual Learning Research Articles

Using Social Space Perspective to Explore SDGs Curricula Localisation: Case Study at Two Japanese National and Private Universities

ABSTRACTDrawing on the concept of the Production of Space this article examines how sustainable development agenda was localised—in design, operation and students' lived experiences—in two international education programmes at two universities in Japan. We analysed relevant programme documents, interviews with faculty members, students' reflective notes, as well as the authors' autoethnographic journals. The findings show that the local and institutional context influenced the SDGs curriculum design (representations of space or the conceived space). The virtual and physical learning spaces, the pedagogy and the operation of the programme (spatial practice or perceived space) shaped students' interaction and learning outcomes (representational space or the lived space). As instructors attempted to adopt SDGs in their teaching (through perceived space) and as students tried to gain interdisciplinary knowledge through SDGs (through lived space), both parties negotiated and challenged the programme design shifting the conceived spaces. Our study contributes to a deeper understanding of the localisation of SDGs within the internationalisation of higher education by employing Lefebvre's spatial analysis. This approach reveals the complex socio‐spatial dynamics at play, offering insights into how educational environments are constructed and experienced.

Students’ Technological Readiness and Online Learning Self-Efficacy in Physical Education

The study of ‘technological readiness and online learning self-efficacy’ has been thoroughly examined across multiple fields in recent years. Most investigations on this topic have consistently shown a contradictory relationship between the two factors. Moreover, there is a dearth of studies undertaken in the field of Physical Education within higher education, particularly in the setting of the Philippines. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between Technological Readiness (TR) and Online Learning Self Efficacy (OLSE) among a sample of 305 Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) students in a higher education institution in the Philippines. Correlational and predictive analyses, specifically Pearson-r and Multiple Regression, were employed to ascertain the association between the four aspects of TR (Optimism, Insecurity, Innovativeness, and Discomfort) and OLSE. The findings indicate a positive and direct correlation between TR and OLSE. Moreover, the four dimensions of TR, exhibit a positive correlation with OLSE. According to the results, PETE students’ inclination to utilise advanced tools through online learning platforms could greatly enhance their online learning self-efficacy. The following recommendations and prospective research initiatives are hereby provided.

Media Ajar Berbasis Digital dalam Pembelajaran IPS di SD/MI

The importance of utilizing digital learning resources for Social Studies (IPS) learning at Elementary School (SD) and Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI) levels is discussed in this article. The utilization of digital teaching materials is expected to improve IPS learning in a more interesting, dynamic, and efficient way along with technological advances. This study identifies various digital learning media, including web-based learning platforms, educational software, and instructional videos, that can be used in the context of IPS learning. The advantages and difficulties faced by teachers and students when incorporating digital media into the classroom are also discussed in this article. It is hoped that by using a digital approach, students will be able to better understand IPS content and develop 21st-century skills needed for everyday life. In addition, this article offers suggestions for the efficient use of digital learning resources that are appropriate to the needs of MI and elementary school students.

Learners'-Teachers'-Parents' Approaches towards EFL Learning: A Case Study at Elementary Levels’ Bangla-Medium Schools in Khulna Metropolitan City, Bangladesh

This study explores the multidimensional attitudes towards learners, teachers, and parents at Bangla-medium schools in the Khulna Metropolitan City of Bangladesh. The initial and first institutional learning starts from elementary schools, indicating pre-primary, nursery, and class one to class five. So, it is crucial to build the foundation of EFL learning platforms where the learners' four language skills can be developed. Considering its standing and global importance, English is a vital language in the workplace, education, and facilitating international communication and cross-border trade and business. The critical goals of the study are to comprehend the viewpoints and approaches of primary school pupils in Bangla-medium schools, the instructional methodologies used by teachers, and the role that parents play in helping their kids acquire the language. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, and classroom observations have been used to collect data and examine the expectations, motives, and difficulties each stakeholder encounters. The results emphasize how crucial interactive teaching strategies are, how important a supportive family environment is, and how learners' particular attitudes toward developing their language skills. The study also recommends how to improve the overall efficacy of English language Learning by organizing teachers' training programs, using English as the medium of instruction, appointing more skilled English Language teachers, making an ideal class size, using digital pedagogical materials tools to develop suprasegmental features; to align curriculum with students' interests; to ensure student-oriented teaching; and to make parental awareness at the primary level in Khulna Metropolitan City.

Self-Assessment Guide to Quality in Accessible Virtual Education: An Expert Validation

The evaluation of quality in education has gained greater relevance, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, which enhanced virtual learning and further highlighted the need for inclusive, equitable, and quality education in line with SDG 4. It has become indispensable to have evaluation models and tools supported by empirical validation to ensure their applicability and reliability in diverse educational contexts. This study addresses this need by validating a self-assessment guide designed to evaluate the quality of virtual education from an accessibility perspective. The validation process involved three phases: a preliminary phase with 4 experts to identify areas for improvement in the structure, clarity, and relevance of the content; an extended phase with 20 experts to evaluate reliability and validity; and a pilot study implemented in four higher-education institutions to verify the guide’s applicability in real environments. Reliability and validity were assessed using standard psychometric techniques, confirming high internal consistency and content validity, although some areas required clarity adjustments. The findings indicate that this guide can serve as a robust tool for institutions aiming to advance accessible and high-quality virtual education, directly supporting SDG 4’s commitment to inclusive education.

Factors that influence students to turn on their cameras in synchronous classes

The purpose of the present study was to explore how students use webcams in a synchronous virtual learning environment. This study focuses on self-presentation and the multiple factors influencing students' decisions about turning their cameras either on or off while engaging in online classes. A survey was conducted in order to gather information regarding students' use of webcams and their self-presentation strategies. This approach enables the collection of quantitative information about students' use and preferences of webcams in online learning environments. The results indicated that only 6% of students regularly turned on their cameras during virtual classes. This very low percentage indicates either a strong disinclination or a failure of capability to engage in visual aspects of learning. Some factors have been identified as affecting students' decisions to use webcams. Many students say that their learning space at home is not conducive to using webcams. Only 7% of the students have a specific online learning space, and that might be the reason why they are reluctant to turn on their cameras. An astonishing 85% of these students admitted to sometimes or always wearing casual clothes, like pajamas or sweatpants, while attending classes online—a habit that could have impacts on self-presentation and camera readiness. Generally, the research demonstrates that students find the management of their online presence difficult. It may be due to ignorance of its effect or technical limitations, besides an assumption that self-presentation is inappropriate in the setting of an online classroom.

Presenting a Model for the Evaluation of the Quality of e-learning at Payam Noor University

The current study aims to design a quality evaluation model of the electronic education system at Payam Noor University by applying a mixed methodology. The statistical population of the qualitative section includes twelve professors, researchers, and experts in the field of e-learning, who were selected by selective sampling. The conceptual model of the research was collected after conducting in-depth semi-structured interviews. The quantitative data based on a questionnaire designed by the researcher was collected from 274 professors and students with experience teaching or studying in the electronic education system of Payam Noor University. The data was analyzed using the structural equation modeling method in PLS3 software. The research results show that quality is a concept consisting of four categories behavioral, scientific, cognitive ability, and virtual learning experience. The study’ findings also reveal that cultural, pedagogical, learner, communication, infrastructural, and institutional factors affect the quality of Payam Noor University's electronic education system. Also, the results show that these characteristics will help universities achieve the four outcomes of competitiveness, job opportunities, economy, and reputation by establishing a quality education system. The ideal model for evaluating the quality of e-learning at Payam Noor University is a process approach in which the three dimensions of factors, quality indicators, and outputs are examined and measured. In other words, electronic education is successful when it can create a valuable experience of virtual education while empowering the learners scientifically, behaviorally, and cognitively to let all the stakeholders of higher education benefit from a valuable electronic education.

IMPLEMENTASI SISTEM PEMBELAJARAN EFEKTIF SEBAGAI STRATEGI PENGUATAN PROFESIONALISME GURU DALAM ERA DIGITAL

This research aims to analyze teacher professionalism strengthening through the implementation of effective learning systems. Using a mixed-method approach, the study was conducted on 100 teachers selected through purposive sampling. Data collection included questionnaires, in-depth interviews with 20 teachers, learning observations, and focus group discussions. The results showed significant improvements in teacher competencies: pedagogical (25%), professional (28%), learning technology utilization (35%), and evaluation skills (30%). The implementation of effective learning systems positively impacted student learning motivation (75%) and learning outcomes (68%). Key supporting factors included policy support and availability of continuous professional development programs, while inhibiting factors included administrative burden and limited technology access. The teacher professionalism strengthening program proved effective in improving learning quality, although it still requires strengthening of the mentoring system and development of digital learning platforms..

Edpuzzle Application in Improving Nursing Students' Metric and Drug Dose Calculation Skills in a Virtual Learning Environment: Mixed Methods Study

Edpuzzle Application in Improving Nursing Students' Metric and Drug Dose Calculation Skills in a Virtual Learning Environment: Mixed Methods Study

Relationships between Faculty Concerns Teaching Methods in Online Education and Technology Use in Teaching

This study underscores the critical need to address faculty concerns and provide adequate support to enhance the effectiveness of online teaching. Conducted with 300 teachers from Jiangsu Vocational College and Information in China, the research explored correlations between faculty concerns, teaching methods, and technology use. The following are the findings: Faculty concerns and Technology Use: The study identified a significant correlation between faculty teaching methods, their use of technology, and their stages of concern about online teaching. Understanding the concerns helps identify barriers to effective online teaching. This relationship underscores the importance of supporting faculty in their use of technology and teaching strategies to improve online education Student Behavior Issues: Faculty expressed concerns about student engagement, participation, and adherence to rules in online learning environment highlighting the need for strategies to address these issues. Technology Utilization. The most frequently used technology used by teachers, was the web for sharing digital files, suggesting that teachers are creating a conducive online environment for their students. Teachers who ensure a positive online learning environment through effective use of technology and adaptable teaching methods significantly enhance the quality of online education . Addressing faculty concerns and fostering supportive teaching practices are essential to maximize the potential online learning platform

The Application and Influence of Interest-Driving in Digital Learning

Abstract: The rapid growth of digital learning platforms has reshaped traditional education by combining structured learning with entertainment--a concept commonly known as "edutainment." This study delves into the connection between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation and how they affect student engagement as it enters into the intricacies of interest-driven learning in digital settings. The important study emphasizes how crucial it is to cultivate intrinsic interest to sustain long-term academic achievement. The difficulty, though, is striking a balance between the gamified learning's attractive features and the systematic rigor essential to academic success. This paper conducts a critical analysis of the ways in which digital technologies, in particular gamification, might promote deep comprehension through real-world applications or increase dependency on rewards, therefore improving or impeding learning. It also discusses the negative aspects of online education, like a lack of community and social connection from traditional classrooms. The study concludes with a suggestion for a solution: interactive gamification based on continuous feedback, real-world simulations, and sustained commitment to maintain a productive balance between amusement and depth of learning.

Development of CytoAcademy: a new web- and mobile-based E-learning platform for cytopathologists and cytotechnologists by the Korean Society for Cytopathology in the post-pandemic era.

Since the late 1990s, online e-learning has offered unparalleled convenience and affordability, becoming increasingly popular among pathologists. Traditional learning theories have been successfully applied to web/mobile-based learning systems, with mobile technologies even enhancing conventional offline education. In cytopathology, hands-on microscope training has traditionally been paramount, complemented by real-case presentations and lectures. However, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic disrupted regular academic activities, making online e-learning platforms essential. We designed a web/mobile-based learning platform to enhance continued medical education in cytopathology at various levels, particularly during the era of COVID-19 and beyond. Since 2021, we have integrated curriculum materials, virtual education files, and whole-slide images (WSIs) of cytopathology, submitted from over 200 institutions across Korea, with the support of numerous instructors. We develop a new e-learning platform named "CytoAcademy" composed of a basic session for each organ and level across the range of morphologic findings; on-demand lectures to enhance cytopathologic knowledge; WSI archives that allow users to explore various histologically confirmed cases; and a self-assessment test to help organize diagnostic knowledge acquired through the web/mobile-friendly learning system. The platform provides not just an opportunity to achieve a correct diagnosis, but also a learning experience based on problem-solving point. Members interact, identify their deficiencies, and focus on specific educational materials. In this manner, all participants can actively engage in creating and maintaining knowledge and foster a proactive approach to learning.

Navigating the virtual landscape: A systematic review of approaches to cultivating a sense of community among distance learners in health and allied health disciplines

Recent years have seen an increase of distance learning in higher education, particularly accelerated due the COVID-19 pandemic with necessary social distancing measures. The present study concerns a systematic review focused on how educators foster and maintain a sense of community among distance learners in health and allied health disciplines. It uses a theoretical framework of communities of practice, groups united by shared interests, learning, and pursuit enhancement. Allied health students need a supportive environment that fosters resilience and camaraderie, preparing them for the collaborative nature of their profession. For the analysis, thematic content analysis was used on the content of nine relevant studies. This stepwise procedure of content analysis revealed three interconnected themes: instructor presence, collaborative interactions, and the learning environment's impact on students' sense of community. The results highlight the need for community-building in distance learning education and emphasize the importance of collaborative learning in virtual learning platforms to foster allied health student engagement and persistence. This research provides valuable insights for allied health educators seeking to enhance distance learning practices and create a more connected and inclusive learning environment for their students.

Assessing Students’ Perceptions of Moodle Usage for Teaching and Learning: A Case of College of Business Education, Dar es Salaam Campus, Tanzania

The advancement of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) has stimulated the development of new learning experiences through using software applications or platforms that deliver, manage and track educational or training programs in the universities. Through the use of blended learning, e-learning platforms like moodle have improved learning experience by integrating virtual classes, video conferencing, presentations, and testing in education delivery. This study aims to show how students perceive the use of moodle for teaching and learning at the College of Business Education (CBE) Dar es Salaam Campus in Tanzania. The study was guided by was guided by the Connectivism Theory (CT). The study adopted a case design because it used a short period of time and constructed at a single case study at College of Business Education (CBE). The target population was 11,924 students from the College of Business Education (CBE) who used moodle as their learning platform. Probability sampling specifically simple random sampling was used to attain the sample size of 374 respondents. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed in the study.The quantitative data was collected through the Likert scale questionnaire was processed through coding, tabulating and analysis using MS excel. Further, the processed and analyzed results for research questions two and three were produced statistically using tables and figures. Apparently, the qualitative data were recorded and immediately transcribed, shared with the respondents for collection in case there were mistakes made, edited, summarized, tabulated and presented in the narrative. Also, the thematic-content analysis was undertaken to analyze the qualitative data obtained through the semi-structured interview and then presented using Tables of summaries and narratives. In addition, the presentation and discussion of the findings were triangulated during the presentation of the responses for each research question. The findings revealed that the integration of moodle into the learning process has enhanced the overall quality of teaching and learning and blended learning through moodle has improved understanding of the course materials. The study recommended that the curriculum designers and policymakers at the college should develop policies that promote the effective use of technology in education including guidelines for implementing moodle in blended learning environments to ensure equitable access to quality education for all students.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT‐4) and Social Media Impact on Academic Performance and Psychological Well‐Being in China's Higher Education

ABSTRACTThe rapid advancement of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) and the extensive use of social media have transformed how students engage with educational materials and interact with their peers. Collaborative learning (CL) platforms, empowered by artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms, have gained popularity due to their potential to enhance learning outcomes and provide personalised educational experiences. This research examines the effects of generative AI (ChatGPT‐4) and social media use on young students' academic performance and psychological well‐being, focusing on CL. The study conceptual framework was examined based on a sample of 441 Chinese university students. The statistical technique PLS‐SEM is put into practice to measure the structural framework of academic performance and psychological well‐being. The findings of this study show that generative AI (ChatGPT‐4) and social media positively influence young students' academic performance and psychological well‐being. Additionally, the results of this research study show that CL positively mediates between social media, academic performance and psychological well‐being. Conversely, it negatively mediates the association between generative AI (ChatGPT‐4), academic performance (AP), and psychological well‐being. The findings can facilitate a better understanding of the implications of technologies in the educational context and subsequently aid in formulating evidence‐based strategies to optimise their impact on students's academic success and well‐being.

Harnessing hybrid deep learning approach for personalized retrieval in e-learning.

The current worldwide pandemic has significantly increased the need for online learning platforms, hence presenting difficulty in choosing appropriate course materials from the vast online educational resources due to user knowledge frameworks variations. This paper presents a novel course recommendation system called the Deep Learning-based Course Recommendation System (DLCRS). The DLCRS combines a hybrid Sequential GRU+adam optimizer with collaborative filtering techniques to offer accurate and learner-centric course suggestions. The proposed approach integrates modules for learner feature extraction and course feature extraction that is performed using (Embeddings from Language Models) ELMO word embedding technique in order to gain a thorough understanding of learner and course profiles and feedback. In order to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed DLCRS, several extensive experiments were carried out utilizing authentic datasets sourced from a reputable public organization. The results indicate a notable area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) score of 89.62%, which exceeds the performance of similar advanced course recommendation systems. The experimental findings support the viability of the DLCRS, as seen by a significant hit ratio of 0.88, indicating high accuracy in its suggestions.

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) for Ethiopian Educators: Evaluating MOOCs as a global development tool

This study examines how global educational technologies interact with local development priorities through the lens of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in Ethiopian higher education teacher training. While digital learning platforms promise to democratize education globally, their effectiveness depends critically on alignment with local institutional contexts and development needs. Using survey data from 164 educators across 15 public universities, we investigate how institutional contexts shape technology integration patterns. Our analysis, integrating development theory with technology acceptance models, reveals three critical dimensions: the gap between awareness and participation reflects broader implementation challenges; previous experiences with development initiatives significantly influence adoption patterns; and state support proves crucial for enabling participation. While MOOCs offer potential for professional development in resource-constrained contexts, their effectiveness depends on complex interactions among infrastructure quality, institutional capacity, and material conditions. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of how global technological innovations interact with local institutional contexts to produce varied development outcomes, while offering practical insights for educational technology implementation in the Global South.

AI in Education: Benefits and Concerns

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has rapidly transformed numerous industries, with education emerging as one of the most impacted fields. The global AI market, valued at $196.63 billion in 2023, is projected to expand significantly, reflecting the growing adoption of AI technologies. In education, AI-driven tools such as personalized learning platforms, automated grading systems, and accessibility-enhancing technologies are revolutionizing teaching and learning experiences. These advancements align with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) by promoting inclusive, high-quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Examples like Duolingo, CoGrader, and the BBC’s AI investments demonstrate how technology is reshaping education to better engage students and improve outcomes. However, the integration of AI raises critical concerns about algorithmic bias, ethical decision-making, and data privacy. While AI can reduce human bias and improve efficiency, it risks perpetuating disparities if training data lacks diversity. Additionally, reliance on large datasets demands stringent data security measures to protect student privacy. Addressing these challenges requires collaboration among educators, policymakers, and developers to ensure AI is used responsibly. This paper examines the transformative potential of AI in education while emphasizing the need for ethical oversight and equity. Future research must focus on refining AI to meet diverse learning needs without compromising inclusivity or fairness.

Prevalence of Online Learning: Adoption and Impact of Virtual Learning among Management Graduates in Nepalese Higher Education

This study investigates the prevalence and impact of online learning in Nepalese higher education institutions, focusing on the experiences of students and faculty from various perspectives, including student, faculty, technological, and overall effectiveness. Using a purposive sampling approach, respondents were selected to gain deeper insights into the realities of online learning. The research was conducted across four universities with more than ten years of experience and active management programs. The findings reveal that the rise of online education has significantly shifted the perceptions of both faculty and students regarding the platform's efficacy. However, it was also discovered that Nepalese students find online instruction to be less engaging and connected compared to traditional methods. The study highlights the positive aspect of the pandemic in opening doors to alternative educational methods, suggesting that this could be the beginning of a significant shift in educational practices. The effectiveness of online classes requires thoughtful design and preparation by all stakeholders involved in the education system.In these uncertain times, it is crucial to understand the strategies and plans of management institutions concerning online education. The insights provided by this study are valuable for stakeholders in formulating future strategies for online learning.

An exploration of undergraduate health science students’ experiences of blended learning andragogy: A rapid review

Introduction: Blended learning is defined as the combined use of in-person and online learning, through interactive multimedia and face-to-face engagement with curriculum content. Recently, higher education institutions have experienced major inevitable changes in teaching and learning approaches, sparking interest in the exploration of these approaches- including blended learning. Aim: To explore undergraduate health sciences students’ experiences of blended learning. Method: A rapid review of articles published in English was conducted between 18th-22nd February 2022 using the following databases: Pubmed, Ebscohost, Web of Science, Scopus, Africawide Information and CINAHL. Articles found were exported to Endnote, version 20.2.1. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis flow chart was used to document the search. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme was used to appraise the articles, which were analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: Eight quantitative articles were analysed and categorised on the hierarchy of evidence. Three themes emerged: 1. Student engagement and perceptions of blended learning, 2. Student academic performance, and 3. Challenges of blended learning. Conclusion: Positive experiences of blended learning were reported, including: significant improvement of student academic performance, higher levels of satisfaction and an increased student engagement. Ineffective online learning platforms and/or technological devices resulted in students experiencing anxiety and frustration. Implications for practice Blended learning may be a feasible option to maintain and enhance students learning experience. Students’ academic performance could improve with blended learning Blended learning could increase students’ engagement within the andragogical field.