Towards effective e-learning on sustainability: a case study-course on participatory processes in environmental politics

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Daniela Perbandt ◽  
Marie-Sophie Heinelt ◽  
Paula Bacelar-Nicolau ◽  
Mahsa Mapar ◽  
Sandra Sofia Caeiro
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Citizen Participation ◽  
Flipped Classroom ◽  
Environmental Politics ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Knowledge And Skills ◽  
Theoretical Approaches ◽  
Participatory Processes ◽  
E Learning

Purpose Distance universities are of great importance for establishing sustainability literacy, as they operate as multipliers for thousands of students. However, despite several advantages of e-learning environments compared to traditional class-teaching, there are still challenges regarding suitable e-learning tools and didactical models. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of several e-learning tools on students’ knowledge and skills growth and to compare two learning paths, synchronous vs asynchronous, exploring how each affects the level of students’ knowledge achievement and skills acquisition. Design/methodology/approach The empirical analysis is based on an online course “Participatory processes in environmental politics”. International MSc and PhD students who enrolled in the course were from FernUniversität in Hagen (Germany) and Aberta University (Portugal). The course was designed as the flipped classroom, applying different e-learning tools and activities, some synchronous and others asynchronous. A pre- and post-evaluation questionnaire was applied to evaluate students’ knowledge and skills. Descriptive statistical analyses were carried out on this data. Findings Results showed that in the synchronous group, knowledge about theoretical approaches to citizen participation and sustainable environmental governance improved to a greater extent, whereas the asynchronous group showed greater improvement in nearly all skills related to intercultural communication and e-learning. Also, in the synchronous path, students enhanced their knowledge on “research application” to a greater extent. Originality/value Evaluating the effectiveness of different e-learning tools on students’ sustainability knowledge and information and communication technologies skills is a fundamental issue. The study discusses these issues, contributing to enhancing the use of adequate and grounded e-learning models on sustainable development in higher education.

scholarly journals Sustainable Education through E-Learning: The Case Study of iLearn2.0

2021 ◽  
Vol 13 (18) ◽  
pp. 10186
Author(s):  
Fu-Hsuan Chen
Keyword(s):  
Citizen Participation ◽  
Flipped Classroom ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Cloud Services ◽  
Learning Performance ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Course Content ◽  
Learning Platform ◽  
E Learning ◽  
Central Taiwan

The present paper studies a blended learning approach provided by a university in central Taiwan from 2018 to 2020. In this approach, a Moodle E-learning platform called iLearn2.0 was used along with an onsite classroom. iLearn 2.0 has four major features, including cloud services, mobile learning, flipped classroom, and data analysis. The platform was used during 2018–2020 in the Citizen Participation course, helping the researcher/teacher to design an interactive course content and aiding students to complete classroom activities through their devices. In total, 127 students enrolled in citizen participation courses were taught during 2018–2020, using different teaching methods. In 2018, students studied in a physical classroom. iLearn2.0 was integrated with the physical classroom for the 2019 course; lastly, the iLearn2.0 platform was used alone in 2020. To evaluate the effect of virtual teaching on the students’ performance, the researcher used summative assessment as the dependent variable. The findings show that the class that received the iLearn2.0- assisted teaching had a significantly better learning performance than the other two classes. However, when researchers used iLearn2.0 alone, both the scores and the feedback from students were lower than those in blended and face-to-face teaching. The results suggest the effectiveness of iLearn2.0 assistance, while learners’ performance did not show any significant change in a totally online class. Results were assessed in the view of sustainability, and three sustainability dimensions were found to be improved in the hybrid classroom. The researcher suggests that iLearn2.0 be integrated with other learning tools for maximum results, as it allows students to have a more diverse learning experience, strengthen sustainable learning, and grasp the progress of their courses and learning activities in a timely manner.

Future Developments of E-Modules

2013 ◽  
pp. 147-153
Author(s):  
Alina Christova
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
European Union ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Transfer Of Knowledge ◽  
Content Structure ◽  
Knowledge And Skills ◽  
Future Developments ◽  
Learning Platform ◽  
Interactive Tools ◽  
E Learning

E-learning tools can be found on an occasional basis in higher education, in particular regarding social sciences. This paper concentrates on envisaged future developments of E-Modules, the innovative e-learning platform on European Union matters created by the Institute for European Studies, which is an autonomous department of the Free University Brussels. First, it provides an overview of the strategy and the concept of E-Modules as well as content, structure and main features of the e-learning tool including best practices and current challenges. The author also explores in depth the role interactive tools and multimedia can play in enhancing the transfer of knowledge and skills to the users of the E-Modules.

Future Developments of E-Modules

2011 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 22-28
Author(s):  
Alina Christova
Keyword(s):  
Social Sciences ◽  
Best Practices ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Transfer Of Knowledge ◽  
Content Structure ◽  
Knowledge And Skills ◽  
Future Developments ◽  
Learning Platform ◽  
Interactive Tools ◽  
E Learning

E-learning tools can be found on an occasional basis in higher education, in particular regarding social sciences. This paper concentrates on envisaged future developments of E-Modules, the innovative e-learning platform on European Union matters created by the Institute for European Studies, which is an autonomous department of the Free University Brussels. First, it provides an overview of the strategy and the concept of E-Modules as well as content, structure and main features of the e-learning tool including best practices and current challenges. The author also explores in depth the role interactive tools and multimedia can play in enhancing the transfer of knowledge and skills to the users of the E-Modules.

scholarly journals Organization of Educational Process for Students of Humanitarian and Electrical Engineering Majors on Basis of Moodle Environment

2018 ◽  
Vol 50 ◽  
pp. 01067
Author(s):  
Diliara Iakovets ◽  
Yulia Kusnetsova ◽  
Rustem Zainutdinov
Keyword(s):  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Electrical Engineering ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Educational Process ◽  
Virtual Learning Environment ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Engineering Majors ◽  
Student Preparation ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning

The authors of the article draw attention to the relevance of the use of e-learning tools to improve the quality of student preparation, as well as they consider the specifics of pedagogical communication within the framework of the information and educational environment. The language of education changes: there is a transition from written forms to audiovisual ones. In addition to traditional actors of the educational process (a teacher and a student), the third actor appears. It is learning tools that operate on the basis of information and communication technologies. The use of e-learning resources in the learning process allows to provide flexible forms of students’ interaction with a teacher and educational content; to organize interactive learning, follow-up and final assessment; to facilitate the management of the educational process for a teacher. The combination of in-class and online (extramural) forms of attendance is most effective. Also, it is necessary to include a cooperative learning approach in the e-learning model. The article describes the experience of using the virtual learning environment (Moodle) in organization of the educational process in a number of subjects (“Psychology of Lying”, “Ergonomics”, etc.) for the students of humanitarian and electrical engineering majors.

From E-Learning Tools to Assistants by Learner Modelling and Adaptive Behavior

2011 ◽  
pp. 313-325
Author(s):  
Klaus Jantke ◽  
Christoph Igel ◽  
Roberta Sturm
Keyword(s):  
Learning Community ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Technology Enhanced Learning ◽  
Learning Approaches ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
It Systems ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning

Humans need assistance in learning. This is particularly true when learning is supported by modern information and communication technologies. Most current IT systems appear as more or less complex tools. The more ambitious the problems in the application domain are, the more complex are the tools. This is one of the key obstacles to a wider acceptance of technology enhanced learning approaches (e-learning, for short). In computer science, in general, and in e-learning, in particular, we do need a paradigmatic shift from tools of a growing complexity to intelligent assistants to the human user. Computerized assistants that are able to adapt to their human users’ needs and desires need some ability to learn. In e-learning, in particular, they need to learn about the learner and to build an internal model of the learner as a basis of adaptive system behavior. Steps toward assistance in e-learning are systematically illustrated by means of the authors’ e-learning projects and systems eBuT and DaMiT. These steps are summarized in some process model proposed to the e-learning community.

From E-Learning Tools to Assistants by Learner Modelling and Adaptive Behavior

2007 ◽  
pp. 212-231 ◽  
Author(s):  
Klaus Jantke ◽  
Christoph Igel ◽  
Roberta Sturm
Keyword(s):  
Learning Community ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Process Model ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Technology Enhanced Learning ◽  
Learning Approaches ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
It Systems ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning

Humans need assistance in learning. This is particularly true when learning is supported by modern information and communication technologies. Most current IT systems appear as more or less complex tools. The more ambitious the problems in the application domain are, the more complex are the tools. This is one of the key obstacles to a wider acceptance of technology enhanced learning approaches (e-learning, for short). In computer science, in general, and in e-learning, in particular, we do need a paradigmatic shift from tools of a growing complexity to intelligent assistants to the human user. Computerized assistants that are able to adapt to their human users’ needs and desires need some ability to learn. In e-learning, in particular, they need to learn about the learner and to build an internal model of the learner as a basis of adaptive system behavior. Steps toward assistance in e-learning are systematically illustrated by means of the authors’ e-learning projects and systems eBuT and DaMiT. These steps are summarized in some process model proposed to the e-learning community.

scholarly journals Using e‐learning for student sustainability literacy: framework and review

2013 ◽  
Vol 14 (4) ◽  
pp. 338-348 ◽  
Author(s):  
Susannah Diamond ◽  
Brian Irwin
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Best Practice ◽  
Academic Staff ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Powerful Learning ◽  
Sustainability Literacy ◽  
E Learning ◽  
Sustainable Futures

PurposeThe paper aims to explore staff practices in using e‐learning to embed sustainability literacy, highlight best practice and determine areas for improvement.Design/methodology/approachA framework of four areas for developing student sustainability literacy (SSL) was proposed as a basis for analysing practice. A literature review then explored the extent to which e‐learning is used to support embedding SSL in the curriculum, and the types of e‐learning currently in use for this.FindingsE‐learning tools were most frequently used to provide flexible access to information, followed by support for communication and collaboration, and were less frequently used for the development of specific skills, personal identity and confidence.Research limitations/implicationsThe sample of case studies provided only limited evidence. A survey of practitioners could be undertaken to explore and validate the issues raised by the literature review.Practical implicationsThe review highlighted scope for a pedagogical shift away from using e‐learning for information delivery and practical communication, and towards supporting rich, student‐centred forms of learning in both blended and distance learning modes.Social implicationsThis shift would create more powerful learning experiences for students, more effectively develop students' personal identities and skills, and yield graduates who are more confident in their ability to create more sustainable futures.Originality/valueThis paper will be of value to academic staff and educational developers looking to develop practice in embedding SSL in teaching and learning, and to harness the potential of e‐learning.

scholarly journals Changes in the approach to employee development in organisations as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Katarzyna Mikołajczyk
Keyword(s):  
Employee Engagement ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Employee Development ◽  
Learning Potential ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Nature Of Information ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning ◽  
Hr Managers ◽  
The Impact

Purpose This paper aims to explore the direction and extent of changes in the approach of organisations to employee development that have occurred as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach This research is of a qualitative nature. The thematic exploration uses the analysis of findings from 19 in-depth interviews with experienced HR managers and is preceded by desk research. Findings The findings advance our understanding of how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected developmental processes in organisations. The results indicate, apart from the change in the form and methodology of employee trainings due to the pandemic, that employees also desire new subjects to aid their development. One also noticed decreased employee engagement and increased fatigue with the use of multiple, online development initiatives. Practical implications For learning and development (L&D) practitioners, there are implications in relation to tailoring developmental offerings to fit the needs of employees to help them to progress more in the course of their work. In this new reality, an agile approach to employee development can work much better. The activities of the L&D departments should also take into greater account the changing and unpredictable reality as well as the evolving nature of information and communication technologies (ICT). The COVID-19 pandemic may contribute to the analysis and modernisation of existing offerings for development in organisations and foster a culture of lifelong learning. Originality/value This research makes an important contribution to the literature by examining the impact of situational context on modifications in development activities undertaken in organisations. The results indicate the need to change the existing role of L&D teams in organisations, taking into account the maximum use of e-learning potential, while understanding its limitations. It can be assumed that while the pandemic develops, designing hybrid learning will become even more important and L&D professionals will focus on combining the flexibility of self-training and available online resources with highly engaging real-world experiences.

scholarly journals EFL Teachers' Perceptions on the Potential of MOOCs for Lifelong Learning

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (4) ◽  
pp. 1-17
Author(s):  
Francisco Javier Palacios-Hidalgo ◽  
Cristina A. Huertas-Abril ◽  
María Elena Gómez-Parra
Keyword(s):  
Lifelong Learning ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Teachers Perceptions ◽  
New Concepts ◽  
Efl Teachers ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning ◽  
Training Resources

Despite its numerous advantages, globalization, information society and the emergence of information and communication technologies (ICT) have caused quick changes in society, provoking the rapid obsolescence of knowledge and the appearance of new concepts. In this context, new professional demands for teachers are required to help students develop necessary competences for the 21st century. At this juncture, ICT, e-learning tools, and MOOCs have arisen as remarkable training resources for teacher lifelong learning with an undeniable potential; however, it seems relevant to study whether teachers agree in the usefulness of such tools. In this light, this article investigates and compares the perceptions of Spanish pre-service and in-service EFL teachers about ICT, e-learning and MOOCs, and the uses of these technologies. The results obtained allow the researchers to analyze whether the possibilities of these resources correspond to the real necessities of EFL teachers.

Using Innovations Effectively in a Distance Learning Programme

2012 ◽  
pp. 1-22
Author(s):  
Richard Blanchard ◽  
Sheryl Williams
Keyword(s):  
Distance Education ◽  
Distance Learning ◽  
Information And Communication Technologies ◽  
Communication Technologies ◽  
Student Experiences ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Learning Tools ◽  
Information And Communication ◽  
E Learning

Distance education is not new. Correspondence courses date back over 150 years. Advances in information and communication technologies, particularly the Internet, open up a host of possibilities to study at a distance, making use of the latest advances in e-learning tools. However, it must be stressed that e-learning has to focus on the learning pedagogy and not just the technology. This chapter examines the role of learning in e-learning by reviewing state-of-the-art developments and innovations to support distance learning students and academics. It identifies strategies for successful learning through the evaluation of student experiences and considers methods and practices that can be employed for delivering a successful learning programme.

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