Perceptions Of Learning Experience Research Articles

Virtual Reality-Based Alcohol Prevention: The Results of a Cross-Sectional Study with Visitors of an Art Exhibition

Virtual reality (VR) can help to prevent alcohol consumption by simulating peer pressure. While existing VR applications for adolescents are primarily tested in schools, expanding them to museums and art galleries offers setting-specific benefits and could enhance their reach. An interactive VR simulation was presented in an art exhibition on substance use reflection. This study aimed to (1) describe visitor experiences with the simulation and (2) analyse differences according to gender and age. Visitors (n = 293) explored Virtual LimitLab for about 15 min before completing a survey on user experience and perceived learning experiences, which also included open questions on its positive and negative aspects. The quantitative user experience and perceived learning experience items were rated positively, except for knowledge increase. Young visitors (≤18 years of age) perceived Virtual LimitLab as more interesting (p = 0.043) and exciting (p = 0.047) than older ones. Female visitors rated the reflective response (p = 0.016) and sensitisation to social pressure (p = 0.024) higher than males. The qualitative evaluation showed that visitors appreciated the simulation’s realism, authenticity and adaptability. VR-based public health interventions in the arts setting need further research to study their preventive potential.

Grade 13 commerce students' perceptions on English language learning at a government school in Nintavur Educational Division

This study aims to comprehensively understand Grade 13 Commerce students' perceptions of English language learning at a government school in the Nintavur Educational Division. The research identifies challenges students face, evaluates the effectiveness of learning resources and teaching aids, and assesses overall learning experiences and teachers' attitudes. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrated quantitative and qualitative data collection, involving 74 students, two English teachers, and educational stakeholders, including the Principal and In-Service Advisor (ISA). Data were gathered through structured questionnaires, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and classroom observations. Quantitative analysis revealed students' fear of making mistakes, lack of confidence, and concerns about pronunciation as significant barriers to learning English. The effectiveness of learning resources was met with mixed opinions, indicating uncertainty about their impact. The study also highlighted dissatisfaction with current teaching methods, with a noted disconnect between teaching practices and students' needs. Chi-Square analysis showed no significant gender differences in perceptions of learning experiences or teachers' attitudes. Qualitative insights from interviews and observations suggested gaps in textbooks and a need for more interactive and practical teaching approaches. The study concludes that addressing emotional barriers, improving teaching resources, and enhancing teacher training are critical for advancing English language education. A multifaceted approach, incorporating better pedagogical strategies, relevant resources, and supportive learning environments, is essential for overcoming the identified challenges and improving students' English language proficiency.

Learning geographical information systems through first principles of instruction – effects on student experiences and geocapabilities

ABSTRACT The development of geocapabilities has been a concern in geographical education, and the application of geospatial technologies such as geographical information systems (GIS) has been popularized in both geography and non-geography courses. However, there are still gaps in how GIS courses could be designed to promote students’ geocapabilities. In order to facilitate GIS teaching and learning rooted in educational theory, we designed a course on story maps based on the First Principles of Instruction. We examine students’ perceptions of learning experiences and geocapabilities through two rounds of course delivery and student survey. According to student feedback and instructor ratings, the designed course activities supported their learning of subject content and developed both of their geography-related and general skills. However, the objective for the development of geocapabilities was found to be too broad or vague for students. We discuss the application of First Principles of Instruction, the relevance of considering geocapabilities, and the implication of the study findings for GIS pedagogy.

Impact of Native and Nonnative Study Partners on Medical Students’ Confidence and Collaborative Strategies in Second Language Medical Dutch Learning

Abstract Objective This study explored how native and nonnative study partners impact medical students’ confidence, learning strategies, and perceptions of learning experiences in second language (L2) medical Dutch learning using Kolb’s experiential learning framework. Methods Twelve third-year international bachelor medical students participated in a mixed-methods pre-post quasi-experimental design. Four students were paired with highly proficient native Dutch partners in a mixed group, and eight nonnative students formed pairs in a homogeneous group. The need satisfaction competence scale was used for pre- and post-tests, and individual interviews were analyzed for content and themes. Code co-occurrence and network analyses were carried out to identify the relationships between themes in the two groups. Results Common themes in both groups included a positive atmosphere, collaboration, and confidence. The mixed group prioritized language learning and motivation, while the homogeneous group emphasized interpersonal relationships and feedback-seeking behaviors. Nonnative students in homogeneous groups gained confidence, while confidence of those in mixed groups decreased, possibly due to comparing themselves with native partners. Homogeneous groups have communication focused collaborative strategies, while the mixed group emphasized personal growth with fewer drawbacks. Conclusions Our findings suggest that initiating the course with homogeneous nonnative student groups fosters collaboration and builds confidence among participants. However, to maintain motivation and further enhance language proficiency, it is advisable to introduce native Dutch partners at a later stage of the course. This approach allows students to benefit from both the positive collaborative atmosphere and interpersonal growth fostered in homogeneous groups, as well as the language learning and motivation gains associated with mixed-group experiences. Overall, our study highlights the importance of considering the stage of language learning and student needs in designing effective second language learning environments for medical students.

Effects of game-based learning on academic outcomes: A study of technology acceptance and self-regulation in college students

ObjectiveThis study investigates the interplay between the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), self-regulation strategies, and academic self-efficacy, and their collective impact on academic performance and perceived learning among college students engaged in remote education. MethodsA sample of 872 university students from Southern China participated in this study. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze the theoretical relationships among the variables. The research focused on two primary areas: the connection between academic self-efficacy and gameful self-regulation strategies within the framework of TAM, and the influence of TAM's three dimensions on students' perceived learning and academic performance. ResultsFindings highlight self-efficacy and gameful self-regulation strategies, in enhancing technology acceptance. Improved acceptance of technology is shown to positively affect academic performance and the perceived learning experience of students in classes using game-based online resources. ConclusionThe study emphasizes the significance of self-efficacy and gameful self-regulation strategies in shaping students' perceptions and attitudes towards technology. These factors are found to be key determinants of both perceived learning and academic achievement in the context of game-based online resource classes.

E-Learning in Anatomy: Medical Students' Perspectives on Synchronous and Asynchronous Lab Sessions

Background: The Covid-19 pandemic has become a global health disaster, various sectors have been affected including the education sector. Online learning is then carried out as an alternative solution to carry out learning. This online learning is carried out in all elements of education including Universities. The intended online learning is divided into two methods, asynchronous and synchronous methods. The difference in these methods will certainly lead to different perceptions for each student, especially in anatomy laboratory learning.This stud aimed to find out the perception of Unpad Medical Faculty students towards the asynchronous and synchronous method of online anatomy laboratory learning..Methods:This research is a quantitative cross-sectional descriptive studies and involved 129 respondents from student of Unpad Faculty of Medicine students class of 2019. This was done using Google Forms which contained a questionnaire and informed consent sheet.Results: FK Unpad online anatomy laboratory learning falls under good category, with each index value: perception of learning experience: 76.2%, perception of lecturer capabilities: 77.1%, perception of facilities and infrastructure: 83.7 %.Conclusion: Online anatomy laboratory learning can still be continued by combining both asynchronous and synchronous methods, so that learning can take place more effectively.

Creating a “Space In-Between”: Learning on the Physical–Hybrid–Virtual Continuum

This mixed-methods study captures multiple stakeholders’ voices and experiences of a hybrid-flexible (HyFlex) learning environment. It juxtaposes different perceptions of learning experiences, equivalency, and interactions. Tutor strategies to facilitate communication across space are explored. Thirty-six undergraduate students experienced the HyFlex model with two synchronous participation modes (i.e., on-site vs. synchronous remote) and an asynchronous option. The study explores the HyFlex setting from three different perspectives. A survey captured students’ perceptions of their motivation, learning, engagement levels, ease of communication, and collaboration experiences within or across spaces. An observation report sheds light on strategies to mediate the transition between the physical and virtual space. A tutor’s journal provides the perspective of teaching on the physical–hybrid–virtual continuum. Meeting students’ needs equally well in the physical and virtual space emerges as a key challenge. The article contributes to the research about hybrid education environments and the intentional planning of versatile interactional spaces.

An exploratory study on perceived online learning experience of university students during the COVID-19 pandemic

<span lang="EN-US">The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the pace of online learning amidst the health crisis unprecedentedly. Students worldwide witnessed the transition of the education system from physical classes to virtual mode and adapted themselves to accommodate the challenges and sustain the learning process. This study was carried out to understand the emotional factors and student engagement in various activities during the pandemic and to examine the perceived learning experience. The present study explored the perceived experience of university students in online learning in India. The study used a survey method and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Results showed that students adapted to online education in the later phase better than the initial stage. The study reported increased stress levels among students. A two-way group analysis of selected variables (gender, age, stress, and loneliness) on perceived learning issues demonstrated significant results. The study’s findings revealed students’ experiences in online learning practice and develop the scope for further discussions to improve the learning process in online settings.</span>

Improving physiotherapy students' anatomy learning experience and short-term knowledge retention-An observational study in Malta.

Anatomy is physiotherapy's foundation. However, undergraduate classroom learning and knowledge acquisition-retention remain questionable. This study explored the possibility of improving this learning experience and evaluates the gross anatomy of abdomen and pelvis short-term knowledge retention among first-year physiotherapy students in Malta. The online Kahoot! game-based quiz platform was used through an instructor-designed best-of-four multiple-choice questions. Correctly answered questions and Kahoot! scores generated by the platform were utilized to measure knowledge retention. Kahoot! sessions 1 and 3 shared similar attendance and response rate and were compared together. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to compare Kahoot! scores and Chi test for trend to compare correctly answered questions. Students' perceived learning experiences before and after the introduction of the Kahoot quizzes were gathered through Likert scores and analyzed using McNamar's chi-square test. Overall, a significantly increased trend in correctly answered questions (χ2 : 23.38, p-value: <0.001) across the Kahoot! sessions were evident. Four questions out of 12 exhibited significant Kahoot! scores differences. Students reported better learning experiences following the initiation of Kahoot! (χ2 : 5.1, p-value: 0.02). Indeed, all students agreed that the use of the interactive quiz improved their anatomy short term knowledge retention. Introducing an online interactive quiz as part of the lecture program may be useful to improve the learning experience and anatomy knowledge retention among physiotherapy students.

Encountering disability in music: Exploring perceptions on inclusive music education in higher music education

This research study evaluated an Artist-in-Residence-project (AIR-project) at the Conservatory of Amsterdam, focusing on inclusive music education. For this project, the Conservatory invited the organization Drake Music Scotland to work with its students. The project’s aim was to provide students with practical skills regarding music technology, to discuss the social model of disability, and to play in an inclusive music ensemble with a musician with a severe physical disability. The perceived learning experiences of students, the experienced value of the project, and recommendations for its improvement were explored through online questionnaires with the students and online semistructured interviews with the AIR-project leader, the musician with a disability, and the two workshop leaders of Drake Music Scotland. Findings suggest that alongside learning practical skills regarding music technology, students changed or broadened their perceptions about people with disabilities and inclusive music-making in positive ways. Furthermore, participants valued that the project created a space in which “taking enough time” and “belonging” could be experienced; these values are important in inclusive music environments as they can empower musicians with disabilities. The main recommendation for similar projects was that students wanted to gain hands-on experience in inclusive music education.

Improving cybersecurity skill development through visual programming

PurposeCybersecurity training plays a decisive role in overcoming the global shortage of cybersecurity experts and the risks this shortage poses to organizations' assets. Seeking to make the training of those experts as efficacious and efficient as possible, this study investigates the potential of visual programming languages (VPLs) for training in cyber ranges. For this matter, the VPL Blockly was integrated into an existing cyber range training to facilitate learning a code-based cybersecurity task, namely, creating code-based correlation rules for a security information and event management (SIEM) system.Design/methodology/approachTo evaluate the VPL’s effect on the cyber range training, the authors conducted a user study as a randomized controlled trial with 30 participants. In this study, the authors compared skill development of participants creating SIEM rules using Blockly (experimental group) with participants using a textual programming approach (control group) to create the rules.FindingsThis study indicates that using a VPL in a cybersecurity training can improve the participants' perceived learning experience compared to the control group while providing equally good learning outcomes.Originality/valueThe originality of this work lies in studying the effect of using a VPL to learn a code-based cybersecurity task. Investigating this effect in comparison with the conventional textual syntax through a randomized controlled trial has not been investigated yet.

The Students’ Perception of the Online Teaching-learning During Covid-19 Pandemic

"The Covid-19 outbreak forced educational institutions to shift from face-to-face to online teaching-learning in a very short time. The students and teachers had to learn by doing and to adapt quickly. Therefore, the focus of this study was to examine the main determinants of students’ perceived learning experience and satisfaction with the online classes. The data was gathered from bachelors’ students. The quantitative approach was implemented to analyse the subject. The findings show positive influence of faculty support, course design and students’ involvement on the students’ perceived learning experience through the e-learning platform and online classes. The student satisfaction with online teaching-learning is predicted by the perceived learning experience through the e-learning platform and online classes. The findings also emphasize the role of information and communication technologies (ICTs), as in the digital era the use of e-learning platforms is essential for the educational institutions. Keywords: online teaching-learning, student’s satisfaction, learning experience, faculty support, course design, students’ implication, e-learning platform, Covid-19 pandemic JEL Classification: M10, M12, M15, M54"

Online Learning

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the trend to the use of online learning more extensively as well as our experience with many new, and often unusual, situational variations. This article reviews what we know about the important factors affecting effective online learning, summarizes the extensive research findings about online learning, reviews some of the overall gaps in the research in terms of moving the state-of-the-art forward, and provides a summary of types of initiatives that departments, colleges, and universities can take to upgrade their online teaching/learning offerings. It also provides a summary of complementary opportunities/strengths and challenges provided by online teaching. Challenges include additional skills to be learned by faculty, various challenges in implementing integrity tools, mode selection issues, lowered perceived learning experience, increased faculty workload, student choice “traps,” and faculty satisfaction conflicts.

Exploring factors influencing minority students’ perceived learning in collaborative Wiki-based learning environments

ABSTRACT This study examined the factors affecting minority students’ learning experience in Wiki-based environments. These factors included perceived collaborative learning, sense of community, Wiki self-efficacy, and perceived learning experience. The relationships of these factors were explored. The participants were 45 African American students enrolled in two undergraduate-level management courses in which Wiki was used to facilitate the process of group work. A mixed methods approach was applied to analyze the collected data. Results indicated that sense of community and collaborative learning significantly contributed to perceived learning in Wiki-based environments. However, Wiki self-efficacy was not a good predictor of perceived learning. Most of the minority students were positive about their group learning experience that involved collaborative processes as well as the development of knowledge and skills. Emotional support and support for cognitive or meta-cognitive processing were identified as factors that had potential influences on Wiki-based collaborative group learning.

Remote iVR for Nutrition Education: From Design to Evaluation

While different crowdsourcing platforms promote remote data collection, experiments in the immersive Virtual Reality (iVR) research community are predominantly performed in person. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, has forced researchers in different disciplines, including iVR, to seriously consider remote studies. In this paper, we present a remote study using the Immersive Virtual Alimentation and Nutrition (IVAN) application, designed to educate users about food-energy density and portion size control. We report on the results of a remote experiment with 45 users using the IVAN app. In IVAN, users actively construct knowledge about energy density by manipulating virtual food items, and explore the concept of portion size control through hypothesis testing and assembling virtual meals in iVR. To explore the feasibility of conducting remote iVR studies using an interactive health-related application for nutrition education, two conditions were devised (interactive vs. passive). The results demonstrate the feasibility of conducting remote iVR studies using health-related applications. Furthermore, the results also indicate that regardless of level of interactivity learners significantly improved their knowledge about portion size control after using the IVAN (p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Adding interactivity, however, suggests that the perceived learning experience of users could be partially affected. Learners reported significantly higher scores for immediacy of control in the interactive condition compared to those in the passive condition (p &amp;lt; 0.05). This study demonstrates the feasibility of conducting an unsupervised remote iVR experiment using a complex and interactive health-related iVR app.

LearnEval Peer Assessment Platform: Iterative Development Process and Evaluation

Peer assessment is a valuable educational activity, which promotes learner engagement and critical thinking, while also decreasing the time spent by the teachers on evaluating students’ work. Over the past decades, several platforms have been proposed to support the peer assessment process. The current landscape is dominated by special-purpose, context-specific peer evaluation systems, which were designed to support a particular type of learning activity, artifact, or discipline. In this article, we propose an alternative, a generic and comprehensive peer assessment platform, called LearnEval, which is very flexible and able to accommodate a variety of pedagogical scenarios. Distinctive functionalities include: highly configurable peer assessment workflow, several automatic and manual review allocation mechanisms, initial calibration/training options for the students, complex dashboard with statistics, scores and graphical visualizations, as well as an extensive open learner model. The platform was developed in an iterative manner, with several extensions and improvements informed by the findings of the initial pilot studies. The article also reports on a practical application of LearnEval in a project-based learning scenario, with very promising results; multiple perspectives of the peer assessment process are analyzed: student behavior, peer grades validity, and perceived learning experience. Comparative results with an earlier study show increased levels of system usability, grading validity, and student satisfaction.

Structural Equation Modelling Analysis of the Relationships Among University Students' Online Self-Regulation Skills, Satisfaction and Perceived Learning

Teaching-learning activities carried out face-to-face in physical classrooms in higher education have been moved to the online environment due to the Covid-19 pandemic obligation. It is obvious that students' learning experiences and perceptions need to be researched empirically in order to optimize higher education strategies that have been moved to the online environment. Data were collected from 451 students studying in different departments in two education faculties in order to reveal the relationship between their satisfaction in the e-learning environment and their perceived learning experiences and using online self-regulation strategies based on the autonomous movement of students in the online environment. Descriptive analyses and path analysis were applied in order to answer the proposed research questions. As a result of this structural equation modeling, a relationship was determined between online self-regulation skills, goal setting and help seeking sub-factors, and satisfaction, goal setting, task strategies and self-evaluation sub-factors and perceived learning. In addition, a direct relationship was determined between satisfaction and perceived learning, supporting previous studies. With this research, it is thought that higher education institutions, administrators and instructors carrying out online teaching and learning activities will provide new perspectives on satisfaction and perceived learning outcomes when students' self-control skills are supported.

Digital Dissection with CT Scans Enhances Anatomy Education: First‐year Medical Students’ Perception of Radiology Teaching During the Covid‐19 Pandemic

OBJECTIVEThe aim of this study was to evaluate students’ perceptions of the educational value of online, interactive anatomy radiology laboratories.HYPOTHESISDigital dissection is performed with computed tomography (CT) scans on near life‐size anatomy visualization tables and has been used to teach radiology anatomy at our institution. These sessions were pivoted to online delivery in response to COVID‐19. With the ongoing movement towards technology integration in medical education, if home access to these online laboratories is made available then we hypothesize the perceived learning experience should be preserved.METHODS290 first‐year medical students participated in 10 weekly digital radiology anatomy laboratories, which employed 3D CT scans to emphasize the clinical applications of anatomy. Students reviewed the cases at home prior to the lab on a mobile platform and labs were delivered synchronously via the Zoom platform in a facilitated large‐group format. After the course, a voluntary anonymous online survey was distributed assessing learner satisfaction, task value, emotional achievement, and cognitive load.RESULTSSurvey response rate was 44%. Most participants reported the labs improved their knowledge of anatomy (82%), disease (81%) and clinical decision making (65%), including surgical knowledge (76%). The large group, synchronous learning format was found to be the most effective (68%). Positive emotional achievement was reported (mean 2.98). The extraneous cognitive load of the at‐home mobile technology and lack of time were perceived as the greatest programmatic challenges.CONCLUSIONSynchronous digital dissection labs were perceived as a valuable addition to the first‐year medical curriculum, enhancing learners’ clinical decision making and preparation for medical sub‐specialties. This format of radiology anatomy education can be integrated into blended learning environments to provide students with additional learning opportunities.

EXPLODE – a new model of exploratory learning environment for neural networks to improve learning outcomes

ABSTRACT The paper proposes EXPLODE, a new model of exploratory learning environment for teaching and learning neural networks. The EXPLODE model is about pedagogically instrumenting a software development environment to transform it into an exploratory learning environment for neural networks. Such an environment is particularly aimed for students who are skilled in programming and meets typical challenges in teaching and learning neural networks, related to the lack of prerequisite knowledge in mathematics. By providing such students with a familiar learning environment and allowing them to programmatically experiment with neural networks, the EXPLODE model aims at improving the students’ learning outcomes and learning experience. The effectiveness of the model was evaluated in an experimental study with 77 final-year IT students. The results have shown that the students from the experimental group, that is, those who were exposed to the EXPLODE model, scored higher on the knowledge test. Furthermore, the perceived learning experience of the experimental group was better than that of the control group. The results have also suggested that the proposed model helps students better understand learning topics that require practical experience and facilitates a deeper understanding of the internal operations of neural networks.

Asthma academy: A student nurse-led telehealth education program for low-income family caregivers of children with asthma.

AimsThe aims of the Asthma Academy study were to (1) evaluate the telehealth performance of DNP students, (2) evaluate the perceived learning experience of DNP students and (3) investigate whether an association exists related to student performance and family caregiver outcomes.DesignA descriptive study was conducted with doctor of nursing practice students.MethodsStudents conducted telehealth visits to help family caregivers of children with asthma and were rated on their performance by two faculty members using a rubric. Student perception data were gathered via survey.ResultsOut of a total possible score of 15 points, the mean telehealth performance score of students was 13.38 points. Students indicated the telehealth experience was valuable and that they were satisfied with their learning. This model of leveraging telehealth to bridge nursing students to the community may be adapted to help family caregivers of children with various disease foci.