Authors:
Kay Berkling
1
and
Christoph Thomas
2
Affiliations:
1
Cooperative State University Baden-Württemberg, Germany
;
2
FILIADATA GmbH, Germany
Keyword(s):
Blended Learning, Problem based Learning, Software Engineering, Education, Ecosystem of Learning, Self-directed Learning, Gamification, Scaffolding.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Blended Learning
;
Computer-Supported Education
;
e-Learning
;
e-Learning Platforms
;
Information Technologies Supporting Learning
;
Learning/Teaching Methodologies and Assessment
;
Pedagogy Enhancement with e-Learning
;
Simulation and Modeling
;
Simulation Tools and Platforms
;
Synchronous and Asynchronous Learning
Abstract:
This paper studies the student view of functionality offered by a research-based design of a blended learning environment. The course in question is a Software Engineering course at the Cooperative State University students alternate between study and work in a quarter-based system and complete their study in three years. Based on findings over the last year, the course is currently using an e-learning platform (Coursesites by Blackboard) to enhance the on-site classroom experience. For this paper, students were asked to rate the usefulness of various functionalities offered by the platform. The results of the survey (77 students) are then used to explore patterns of usage. We use Grasha’s theoretical definition of six learner-stereotypes to derive an exaggerated usage pattern for each. While students do not match stereotypes, usage patterns become evident in the degree to which they match a combination of these pure definitions. According to groupings of common manifestations, the s
tudent body is highly fragmented in their preferred use of the platform. Maintaining Grasha’s nomenclature according to the most pronounced stereotype in a pattern, these students consisted of 38% “avoidant” user type, 27% “collaborative/participant”, and 10% “competitive” usage pattern. A single platform will not cover any mixed group of students and configurable views need to be considered in future.
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