Student Engagement Research Articles

Classification of Internal and External Distractions in an Educational VR Environment Using Multimodal Features.

Virtual reality (VR) can potentially enhance student engagement and memory retention in the classroom. However, distraction among participants in a VR-based classroom is a significant concern. Several factors, including mind wandering, external noise, stress, etc., can cause students to become internally and/or externally distracted while learning. To detect distractions, single or multi-modal features can be used. A single modality is found to be insufficient to detect both internal and external distractions, mainly because of individual variability. In this work, we investigated multi-modal features: eye tracking and EEG data, to classify the internal and external distractions in an educational VR environment. We set up our educational VR environment and equipped it for multi-modal data collection. We implemented different machine learning (ML) methods, including k-nearest-neighbors (kNN), Random Forest (RF), one-dimensional convolutional neural network - long short-term memory (1 D-CNN-LSTM), and two-dimensional convolutional neural networks (2D-CNN) to classify participants' internal and external distraction states using the multi-modal features. We performed cross-subject, cross-session, and gender-based grouping tests to evaluate our models. We found that the RF classifier achieves the highest accuracy over 83% in the cross-subject test, around 68% to 78% in the cross-session test, and around 90% in the gender-based grouping test compared to other models. SHAP analysis of the extracted features illustrated greater contributions from the occipital and prefrontal regions of the brain, as well as gaze angle, gaze origin, and head rotation features from the eye tracking data.

Conceptual framework for enhancing decision-making in higher education through data-driven governance

In an increasingly complex and competitive landscape, higher education institutions must leverage data-driven governance to enhance decision-making processes. This paper presents a conceptual framework aimed at integrating data analytics into the governance structures of higher education, facilitating informed decision-making, and improving institutional effectiveness. The framework emphasizes the importance of collecting, analyzing, and utilizing data across various dimensions, including academic performance, student engagement, financial management, and operational efficiency. By adopting a data-driven approach, institutions can identify trends, forecast outcomes, and make strategic decisions that align with their mission and goals. The study outlines key components of the framework, including data governance, analytics capabilities, stakeholder engagement, and institutional culture. Data governance ensures that data quality, integrity, and security are maintained, while analytics capabilities empower decision-makers with actionable insights. Engaging stakeholders—faculty, administrators, students, and external partners—fosters a collaborative environment where data-driven decisions are embraced and supported. Furthermore, the framework addresses the challenges institutions face when implementing data-driven governance, such as resistance to change, data silos, and inadequate technological infrastructure. Strategies for overcoming these challenges include investing in professional development, enhancing data literacy, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. The framework also highlights the significance of ethical considerations and transparency in data usage, ensuring that decision-making processes are equitable and accountable. The findings indicate that by embracing data-driven governance, higher education institutions can enhance their responsiveness to changing demands, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall institutional performance. Ultimately, the conceptual framework serves as a guide for higher education leaders seeking to harness the power of data in their decision-making processes, fostering a proactive and adaptive institutional environment.

The Next Generation of Learning: AI Mentorship for a Transformative Educational Experience

Developers of this augmented reality-based artificial intelligence education program aim at augmenting student engagement in learning through the incorporation of virtual mentors and the overall experience being made engaging, efficient, and personalized. Therefore, the application provides contextual support, tailored learning pathways, and real-time feedback that significantly enhance users' understanding of complex AI concepts with customized AI avatars and augmented reality technologies. These artificial intelligence mentors and assistants act as learning facilitators for both engineering and non-engineering students while enhancing the educational experience. The software features natural language processing to enable smooth communication; it introduces gamification into the courseware, adds quizzes, and provides rewards for a better learning experience, among other features

Integrating educational technology into Lesotho Secondary Religious Studies: A conceptual exploration of practical challenges and opportunities

The use of educational technology (Ed-tech) is becoming more prevalent in shaping teaching methods to meet the needs of modern learners. This study examines how Ed-tech is integrated into secondary Religious Studies classrooms in Lesotho, using the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework as a guide. By reviewing global literature, it looks at the opportunities and challenges of incorporating digital tools into Religious Studies, a subject aimed at developing social skills and moral values. Research suggests that technology can improve student engagement, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning through platforms like cloud-based learning and multimedia resources. However, Lesotho faces obstacles in implementing Ed-tech, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient teacher training, and outdated educational policies, which leads to a digital divide, especially in rural areas with limited access to electricity and the internet. The study concludes that while Ed-tech has the potential to transform Religious Studies education, addressing these systemic barriers is crucial for effective implementation. It recommends improving technological infrastructure, providing professional development for teachers, updating curriculum policies to meet 21st-century requirements, and integrating digital literacy into the Religious Studies curriculum. Overcoming these challenges will not only bridge the digital divide but also enhance the teaching and learning of Religious Studies, equipping learners with skills to navigate the ethical and digital complexities of the modern world.

Understanding the behavioural intention of students for education via OTT platforms driven by social media advertisements

PurposeThe paper aims to examine students' feelings about studying through over-the-top (OTT) education and how they are influenced by social media advertisements (SMA) while browsing the Internet. The study looked into the factors influencing students' behavioural intention (BI) for OTT education, which helps meet their individual needs beyond the limits of traditional platforms.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through an online survey using a structured questionnaire from 345 students in the present study from various districts of Rajasthan in India. The collected data were analysed using the partial least square–structural equation modelling to substantiate the hypotheses and make inferences.FindingsThe study provided an inclusive model by probing the effect of four SMA features [Informativeness (INFO), Entertainment (ENT), Trust (TRU) and Reward (RWD)] on Brand Engagement (BE). It emphasises casing gaps in the literature regarding the consequence of BE on BI in the OTT market. The results highlighted a significant relationship between BE on BI. At the same time, all relationships proved significant for SMA, apart from TRU. The pioneering research jointly studies these factors in the model, predominantly in the streaming platforms, with empirical data.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ understanding, previous research lacks in focusing ENT, INFO, TRU and RWD’s relation to BE and identifying its effect on OTT education in the Indian context. Using the present study, marketers in the competitive world can better facilitate the adoption of OTT platforms, the factors impacting brand engagement for students and their views on the topic.

Investigating EFL English-Majored Students’ Perceptions of Interactive Teaching Methods in Language Classes

This study investigates the perceptions of EFL English-major students at Nam Can Tho University regarding interactive teaching methods. Interactive methods, which include activities such as group work, discussions, role-playing, and peer feedback, are increasingly adopted in language education to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Grounded in Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) and sociocultural theory, the study explores both the benefits and challenges associated with these methods. A 20-item questionnaire, adapted from existing literature, was administered to 70 students to gather data on their experiences. The findings reveal that students recognize significant benefits of interactive methods, including increased motivation, improved language skills, and practical application of English. However, challenges such as difficulties in transitioning from traditional methods, staying focused due to distractions, managing group activities, addressing cultural influences, and ensuring equal participation were also identified. The study highlights the need for targeted support and professional development for educators, effective classroom management strategies, and culturally responsive teaching practices to enhance the effectiveness of interactive teaching methods. These insights contribute to the ongoing discourse on interactive teaching and offer practical recommendations for improving language instruction in EFL contexts.

Interconnected factors in EFL engagement: classroom climate, growth mindset, and achievement goals

IntroductionThis study explores the relationships among classroom climate, growth mindset, achievement goal orientation, and student engagement in the context of English as a foreign language (EFL) education in China. The study aims to understand how these factors interact to influence student engagement and motivation in EFL learning.MethodsData were collected through a questionnaire administered to 587 Chinese undergraduate EFL students. The questionnaire assessed students’ perceptions of classroom climate, growth mindset, achievement goal orientation, and engagement. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized to examine the relationships among these variables.ResultsThe SEM analysis revealed significant positive correlations among classroom climate, growth mindset, achievement goal orientation, and student engagement. Both classroom climate and growth mindset were found to directly and positively predict student engagement. Additionally, achievement goal orientation mediated the relationships between both classroom climate and student engagement, and between growth mindset and student engagement.DiscussionThe findings underscore the interconnectedness of classroom climate, growth mindset, and achievement goal orientation in shaping student engagement in EFL education. These results suggest that fostering a positive classroom climate and promoting mastery-oriented goals can enhance student motivation and contribute to more effective language acquisition. Practical implications for EFL educators are also discussed.

Student Engagement, Community of Inquiry, and Transactional Distance in Online Learning Environments: A Stepwise Multiple Linear Regression Analysis

This study explored the complex dynamics of student engagement, community of inquiry, and transactional distance in online learning environments. The study analyzed 1,281 participants’ responses to identify the factors contributing to online learning outcomes. The research highlighted the crucial role that transactional distance and community of inquiry play in shaping students’ behavioral engagement and provided insight into their significant impact on participants’ learning experience. Through a stepwise multiple linear regression analysis, the research uncovered the complex relationships among these variables, thereby providing valuable insights for educators and institutions aiming to enhance the online learning experience. The results have significant implications for educational practitioners and policymakers, including practical strategies to increase student engagement and foster a lively community of inquiry in online learning environments. Ultimately, this research is a valuable resource for all those involved in online education, to help them understand the key factors that contribute to successful online learning experiences.

First things first: measuring French Medical schools’ deans motivation to engage in smoke-free campus

Abstract Smoke-free campuses (SFC) prohibit smoking and vaping on all university grounds and for all users. Around a hundred of papers was published on that topic revealing how they reduce initiation and increase smoking cessation among students. Whereas it is key for the success of all project, including SFC, very rare research has investigated attitude of high-level leaders of universities toward SFC, their perceived barriers and motivation to adopt it. To fill this gap, we interviewed deans of medical schools in France, where SFC are limited. In-depth individual interviews were conducted on 31 deans and two associate-deans (representing 31 out of 35 French medical schools). Questions rose knowledge of SFC, perception of this measure, self-role to play and other factors influencing implementation. We targeted medical schools because they train future prescribers of smoking cessation, and can act as a model for policy dissemination to other schools. The 23 hours of interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis with Nvivo14. Regarding diffusion in 2023, only one medical school had a SFC, six were implementing it, 23 had no SFC and one abandoned it. 28 held positive attitudes towards SFC, explained by its impact on health and the mission of medical schools. Most of them considered SFC feasible with resources and engagement of students. Identified barriers were competing priority, lack of funding and of support from users and risk of stigmatization of smokers. A majority of deans thought they had a role to play in initiating, promoting and moderating the policy. SFC are recommended by the WHO but there is important room for improvement for their diffusion in France. Yet, a majority of deans we interviewed appeared motivated to adopt it. Solutions to encourage them and overcome barriers must be found. Key messages • Diffusion of SFC among medical schools remains limited in France. • Deans’s positive attitude towards SFC bring hope for a better diffusion of SFC among French universities.

Exploring student engagement and sense of belonging at small institutions post COVID‐19 pandemic

AbstractThis article explores the dynamics of student engagement in small institutions, emphasizing their unique community‐centered approach. Particularly in the post‐pandemic era, where personalized support systems have become crucial, small institutions are reevaluating their strategies to enhance student empowerment and connection. Key aspects examined include tailored academic advising, mental health services, and career guidance, all pivotal in fostering holistic student development. The article explores critical factors influencing engagement, such as institutional support, campus culture, and the integration of technological advancements, highlighting how these elements contribute to a vibrant learning environment in small institutions.

Application of the Jigsaw Learning Model to Improve Learning Outcomes in History Subjects Class XI-4 at SMA Negeri 14 Medan

This study seeks to enhance student learning achievements by implementing the Jigsaw learning model with Class XI-4 at SMA NEGERI 14 Medan. Currently, the learning outcomes and student engagement have not met expectations. Learning methods that are inappropriate and do not suit students' characteristics in implementing learning are one of the causes of the learning outcomes and student activity that are not achieved as expected. In using jigsaw learning, students work in small groups to solve tasks that have been divided, each group member is responsible for studying and understanding part of the learning material and then sharing their knowledge with other group members. In this process, In this approach, each student specializes in a specific section of the material and gains a deeper comprehension through teamwork with their peers on the content provided by the teacher. The findings of this study demonstrate that applying the Jigsaw learning model effectively enhances history learning outcomes for Class XI-4 at SMA NEGERI 14 Medan. The research indicates a notable improvement in student performance, with scores rising from 65.5% in the first cycle to 86.9% in the second cycle. Additionally, the study highlights improvements in students' communication, collaboration, and respect for the opinions and contributions of other groups.

A Bibilometric Analysis of Assessment as Learning in Higher Education

Assessment in higher education has been dominated by traditional practices that mainly focus on grades for student progression. However, there has been some transformation in assessment due to the advancement in education. Generally, assessment is viewed as central to student learning and experience. Assessment as learning, is not just an addition to learning and teaching, but it presents an opportunity through which students’ involvement in assessment could manifest as part of learning: assessment is learning-oriented. Assessment as Learning in Higher Education is about student empowerment; hence, students take ownership of their own learning process. Furthermore, assessment as learning promotes constructivism through student engagement and knowledge construction. This bibliometric analysis analysed the trends evident from research on assessment as learning and implementation in Higher Education. Data were retrieved from the Scopus database and analysed using VOSviewer. The thematic analysis approach was also employed. The study reveals that self-assessment is important in promoting student empowerment, which is one of the benefits of assessment as learning. It is important that higher education institutions rethink assessment as learning because this might assist in achieving the 21st-century educational goal of independent learning. The study’s findings confirm that there is a need for constructive alignment of teaching, learning and assessment; hence, assessment as learning becomes more significant. The findings provided an overview of key themes, research gaps and potential areas for future research. The insight that was gained from this bibliometric analysis will be valuable for lecturers, course designers, universities, assessors and researchers seeking to improve assessment in higher education.

Application of Wordwall Media to increase learning motivation in learning the History of Colonialism and Imperialism in class XI-6 SMA Negeri 5 Medan

This research aims to increase student motivation in studying in class XI-6 students at SMA Negeri 5 Medan in studying the history of colonialism and imperialism through the use of the Wordwall web media. The classroom action research method was applied in three stages. The research results showed a significant increase in students' learning motivation after using Wordwall. In the second stage, student learning motivation reached 81%, an increase from 50% in the initial stage. These findings indicate that Wordwall has the potential to be an effective tool for increasing student interest and engagement in history learning.

The uniqueness and importance of small institutions in America

AbstractThe authors examine the unique and important role of small institutions in the landscape of higher education in the United States. Through an examination of student success, community engagement, and sense of belonging, the authors aim to provide a better understanding of the evolving dynamics in small institutions and the need for bold institutional leaders to retain institutional distinctiveness while innovating and redesigning the student experience for the 21st century.

Kahoot Utilization! To Support Game-Based Learning

The use of Kahoot in today's digital era is increasingly important in supporting an interactive and fun learning process. As a gamification-based learning platform, Kahoot allows educators to create quizzes and challenges that are accessible online, increasing student engagement and facilitating active learning. So this research aims to explain the use of Kahoot! to support Game-Based Learning. The method used in this study uses the SLR (Systematic Literature Review) method using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses method commonly called PRISMA. The results of the 11 articles used in this review literature show that activeness in the learning process makes learning interactive and interesting and becomes one of the learning media options for teachers. Conclusion After studying the use of Kahoot in ICE, interest arose in the potential of this platform in supporting learning through gamification. Kahoot creates interactive learning experiences with real-time quizzes and challenges, which increases student engagement. Research shows that the platform makes the learning atmosphere competitive and fun, and provides live evaluation for teacher feedback. Thus, Kahoot can motivate students and improve academic outcomes.

The culture of small institutions: Unique spaces for meaningful and sustainable collaboration between academic affairs and student affairs

AbstractCollaboration between academic and student affairs fosters meaningful student engagement, supports academic achievement, and facilitates a robust campus community. Although these partnerships can be challenging to develop, small institutions occupy a unique position in higher education, as these collaborations are highly valued as fundamental to the campus culture and an essential factor in the practical life of the institution. By focusing specifically on the role of the faculty in collaboration with student affairs professionals at small institutions, this article demonstrates the unique and tremendous power of small institutions in fostering meaningful, robust, and sustainable partnerships between academic and student affairs. Because of their histories, traditions, and structure, small institutions possess a strong and distinct foundation for collaborative work with corresponding benefits and challenges. Finally, this article provides practical recommendations for student affairs professionals at small institutions about ways to draw upon their distinct culture and to understand why these partnerships are important for our students and their development, for faculty and student affairs professionals, for our institutions that are faced with mounting economic, social, and political pressures, and for the public good more broadly.

Innovations in staffing and service delivery structures and modalities in small institutions

AbstractSmall institutions are in a unique and perhaps necessary position to innovate as the field changes, resources falter, and the needs of the next generation of students and families become apparent and quite different from those supported by our historical structures and service modalities. This article examines the literature surrounding historical and innovative practices that higher education can explore to inform the future of student development practice. Additionally, the article explores new structural models and examines the efficacy of retaining the scaled down versions of the structures of large universities instead of creating new modalities that increase staff performance, provide better work/life harmony, create more efficient and effective services and functions, while increasing student engagement and connection.

Optimizing Interactive Learning Management System (LMS) in Improving Students' English Language Skills

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the platform in improving the quality of learning for students at the Al-Mujaddid Sabak Islamic Institute. This study seeks to understand how interactive features such as discussion forums, automatic quizzes, online assignments, and virtual classes can contribute to improving student engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. The methodology used is qualitative research with data collection techniques in the form of in-depth interviews, observations, and document analysis. The results of the study indicate that the process of implementing a Learning Management System (LMS) with interactive features has proven to be an effective solution in supporting flexible, collaborative, and more participatory learning. Features such as discussion forums, virtual classes, online assignments, and student progress analysis provide various benefits for the teaching and learning process, both for students and teachers. Recommendations for LMS with interactive features not only optimize online learning but also enrich the overall learning experience, making it an important platform in the world of modern education. Recommendations for optimizing interactive learning are to provide training to lecturers and students in using LMS, provide adequate internet access, and combine online learning with face-to-face learning that supports social interaction. Continued support from institutions in terms of infrastructure and training will be critical to ensure a more mature and comprehensive implementation in the future.

The Impact of Student Attitude on Information, Communication, Creation Skills and Student Engagement

The Malaysian education system is guided by the Malaysia Education Blueprint, which drives the overall quality and effectiveness of education in the country. This study provides insights and assists in forming informed guidelines for the Ministry of Education regarding the impact of skill factors. The relationship between the direct effects of these three primary skills and attitudes is supported by Self-Efficacy Theory (SET). The indirect relationship, where attitude mediates the effects of these skills on student engagement, is supported by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). A questionnaire was distributed to local university students currently in their fourth semester and analyzed using the Structural Equation Model using Partial Least Square (PLS). The structural model results direct relationship between attitude and student engagement and between information skills and attitude. In addition, the mediation analysis shows that the relationship between information skills and student engagement, mediated by student attitude, was significant. Based on these results, it is recommended that the Ministry of Education focus on providing supportive resources, such as learning environments and training for educators, in the upcoming Malaysia Education Blueprint for 2026 to 2036. Additionally, offering Digital Literacy Programs to equip students with information skills can positively influence student attitudes and thereby increase the level of student engagement, which is crucial for improving the academic performance and achievement of Malaysia’s educational system. Future research should include a cross-cultural comparison to reconsider educational theories for Asian countries, as many theories are currently based on Western educational settings and contexts.

The Effect of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Students' Learning

Various studies have been conducted to identify factors that contribute to student engagement, personalized learning experience, and student academic performance. The evolution of technology offers various benefits including in the education sector. To date, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in education has been seen to provide various benefits. This study aims to identify the relationship between the usage of AI with student engagement, personalized learning experience, and student academic performance. Data was collected from 110 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Business and Management, UiTM Puncak Alam Campus using a questionnaire. 106 data were analyzed using SPSS version 29. The findings show that AI usage for study purposes significantly influences student’s engagement and academic performance. On the other hand, the usage of AI and personalized learning experience show no significant influence. This study not only provides a deeper understanding of the context of AI usage for better student engagement and academic performance but also gives valuable insight for UiTM and faculty specifically to develop strategies and modules that enhance the implementation and usage of AI in their learning activities.