1 March 30, 2016
1. İsmail İpek, Rushan Ziatdinov, Ömer Faruk Sözcü , Yury S. Tyunnikov
Computer-Assisted Learning, Multimedia Instruction, Learning, Design, Development and Methods for Future Learning Designs: A Special Issue
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 5-6.
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2. Arzu Deveci Topal European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 5-6.
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Examination of University Students’ Level of Satisfaction and Readiness for E-Courses and the Relationship between Them
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 7-23.
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3. Erhan Delen, Jeffrey LiewEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 7-23.
Abstract:
The success of a distance education program can be evaluated according to student satisfaction, aside from comprehensive examinations, projects and presentations. The purpose of this research study is to determine both the relationship between e-course satisfaction and online learning readiness by ascertaining student levels, and the effect of the materials used in e-learning on student satisfaction. A general screening model was used in this study to determine the characteristics of a group and to clarify the existing situation in their own conditions. The study was conducted during the 2014-2015 academic year at Kocaeli University. The E-Course Satisfaction Scale (ECSS), consisting of 35 five-point Likert-type items, and the Online Learning Readiness Scale (OLRS) consisting of 18 five-point Likert-type items, were applied to 352 university students. The data were analyzed by methods of descriptive statistics, independent t-test and regression analysis in the SPSS program. According to the survey the satisfaction level of the students is moderate; when the sub-dimensions were examined, satisfaction was high in the instructor-student interaction and environment design sub-dimensions while it was moderate in the course content and teaching process, materials used and communication tools, and attitude towards e-learning sub-dimensions. When interaction and communication tools such as a virtual classroom, forum, chat, e-mail, web pages, animation, video, graphics and images as content tools, and questionnaire as assessment tool were used there was a difference in student satisfaction, and satisfaction was higher in these courses. There was not a significant difference in the students’ satisfaction with the exams and homework as assessment tools, or content of .pdf and text documents as content tools, but .pdf-text documents and exams were among the most-used tools in the courses. Student satisfaction was high when the number of materials used in courses was 7 and over, that is, as the number of materials increased, so did the satisfaction level. The levels of students’ readiness for online learning were high in all sub-dimensions in total, and there was a positive significant relationship between students’ levels of readiness and their satisfaction level. Moreover, the satisfaction levels of learners who were self-directed, had high motivation and could control their own learning appeared to be affected positively. In conclusion, to increase the satisfaction level of the students it would be useful to increase the number of materials used in the e-courses; give more importance to interaction; and use more tools such as animation, virtual classroom, video, forum, survey, chat and email. In order to increase satisfaction, student readiness should be considered, students should be able to use technology effectively.
The success of a distance education program can be evaluated according to student satisfaction, aside from comprehensive examinations, projects and presentations. The purpose of this research study is to determine both the relationship between e-course satisfaction and online learning readiness by ascertaining student levels, and the effect of the materials used in e-learning on student satisfaction. A general screening model was used in this study to determine the characteristics of a group and to clarify the existing situation in their own conditions. The study was conducted during the 2014-2015 academic year at Kocaeli University. The E-Course Satisfaction Scale (ECSS), consisting of 35 five-point Likert-type items, and the Online Learning Readiness Scale (OLRS) consisting of 18 five-point Likert-type items, were applied to 352 university students. The data were analyzed by methods of descriptive statistics, independent t-test and regression analysis in the SPSS program. According to the survey the satisfaction level of the students is moderate; when the sub-dimensions were examined, satisfaction was high in the instructor-student interaction and environment design sub-dimensions while it was moderate in the course content and teaching process, materials used and communication tools, and attitude towards e-learning sub-dimensions. When interaction and communication tools such as a virtual classroom, forum, chat, e-mail, web pages, animation, video, graphics and images as content tools, and questionnaire as assessment tool were used there was a difference in student satisfaction, and satisfaction was higher in these courses. There was not a significant difference in the students’ satisfaction with the exams and homework as assessment tools, or content of .pdf and text documents as content tools, but .pdf-text documents and exams were among the most-used tools in the courses. Student satisfaction was high when the number of materials used in courses was 7 and over, that is, as the number of materials increased, so did the satisfaction level. The levels of students’ readiness for online learning were high in all sub-dimensions in total, and there was a positive significant relationship between students’ levels of readiness and their satisfaction level. Moreover, the satisfaction levels of learners who were self-directed, had high motivation and could control their own learning appeared to be affected positively. In conclusion, to increase the satisfaction level of the students it would be useful to increase the number of materials used in the e-courses; give more importance to interaction; and use more tools such as animation, virtual classroom, video, forum, survey, chat and email. In order to increase satisfaction, student readiness should be considered, students should be able to use technology effectively.
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The Use of Interactive Environments to Promote Self-Regulation in Online Learning: A Literature Review
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 24-33.
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4. Muzaffer ÖzdemirEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 24-33.
Abstract:
Distance education in the 21st century often relies on educational technology as the primary delivery of teaching to learners. In distance education, the source of the information and the learner do not share the same physical setting; therefore, the information is delivered by a variety of methods. The new emerging tools that are used in online learning have changed the view of pedagogical perspective in distance education. Although online learning shares some elements with traditional classroom environments, the shared elements often take very different forms, and each type of learning environment has distinct limitations and affordances. Because current practices often compare or assess the effectiveness of online learning by comparing it with traditional instruction methods, educators and researchers often find it important to consider the methods and strategies that are used in classroom settings when designing online learning environments. Online environments should provide opportunities for students to master necessary tasks by using appropriate strategies, such as self-regulation. Self-regulation is one of the predictors of student performance in both traditional and modern learning environments. In an online platform, when students use strategies that are related to self-regulation, they can regulate their personal functioning and benefit from the online learning environment by changing their behaviors accordingly. Thus, it is important to explore and embed new interactive functions to the online learning environments and lead learners to use self-regulatory behaviors in those learning environments. This article discusses the importance of self-regulation in online environments, and provides recommendations for best practices in the design and implementation of interactive online learning environments with the self-regulated learning approach.
Distance education in the 21st century often relies on educational technology as the primary delivery of teaching to learners. In distance education, the source of the information and the learner do not share the same physical setting; therefore, the information is delivered by a variety of methods. The new emerging tools that are used in online learning have changed the view of pedagogical perspective in distance education. Although online learning shares some elements with traditional classroom environments, the shared elements often take very different forms, and each type of learning environment has distinct limitations and affordances. Because current practices often compare or assess the effectiveness of online learning by comparing it with traditional instruction methods, educators and researchers often find it important to consider the methods and strategies that are used in classroom settings when designing online learning environments. Online environments should provide opportunities for students to master necessary tasks by using appropriate strategies, such as self-regulation. Self-regulation is one of the predictors of student performance in both traditional and modern learning environments. In an online platform, when students use strategies that are related to self-regulation, they can regulate their personal functioning and benefit from the online learning environment by changing their behaviors accordingly. Thus, it is important to explore and embed new interactive functions to the online learning environments and lead learners to use self-regulatory behaviors in those learning environments. This article discusses the importance of self-regulation in online environments, and provides recommendations for best practices in the design and implementation of interactive online learning environments with the self-regulated learning approach.
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The Analysis of the Relationship between Primary Learning Styles and Learning Objects in an Online Environment
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 34-50.
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5. Ferit Karakoyun, Abdullah KuzuEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 34-50.
Abstract:
This study investigates the relationships between the primary learning styles of students and different learning objects presented simultaneously in an online learning environment in the context of the usage levels of these objects. A total of 103 sophomores from a Turkish State University participated in the study. Felder-Solomon Index of Learning-Styles (F-SILS) was used to determine the learning styles of the participants. Four different types of learning objects (i.e. video lecturing, audio lecturing, PDF lecturing and subject comprehension tests) were prepared for the course ‘Basic database operations with MySQL’. Koper’s (2003) classification model was used in selecting these learning objects. Descriptive analysis methods were used to determine the distribution of the participants according to their learning styles. Independent-Samples T-Test and the Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test were used to test the differences between learning styles and learning objects. The usage levels of the learning objects were analysed in the context of interdimensional primary learning styles in the scale of the F-SILS. Those with sensory and visual learning styles were in the majority among the primary learning styles of participants. The study did not include the findings of students with other primary learning styles due to their small sample size. The findings of the study on the usage frequencies of subject comprehension tests and the duration of video lectures by primarily visual and sensory students demonstrated a significant difference on behalf of the primary sensory students. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference between students with primarily sensory styles and students with primarily visual styles in terms of the reading frequency of PDF lectures and the listening frequency of audio lectures.
This study investigates the relationships between the primary learning styles of students and different learning objects presented simultaneously in an online learning environment in the context of the usage levels of these objects. A total of 103 sophomores from a Turkish State University participated in the study. Felder-Solomon Index of Learning-Styles (F-SILS) was used to determine the learning styles of the participants. Four different types of learning objects (i.e. video lecturing, audio lecturing, PDF lecturing and subject comprehension tests) were prepared for the course ‘Basic database operations with MySQL’. Koper’s (2003) classification model was used in selecting these learning objects. Descriptive analysis methods were used to determine the distribution of the participants according to their learning styles. Independent-Samples T-Test and the Mann-Whitney Wilcoxon test were used to test the differences between learning styles and learning objects. The usage levels of the learning objects were analysed in the context of interdimensional primary learning styles in the scale of the F-SILS. Those with sensory and visual learning styles were in the majority among the primary learning styles of participants. The study did not include the findings of students with other primary learning styles due to their small sample size. The findings of the study on the usage frequencies of subject comprehension tests and the duration of video lectures by primarily visual and sensory students demonstrated a significant difference on behalf of the primary sensory students. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference between students with primarily sensory styles and students with primarily visual styles in terms of the reading frequency of PDF lectures and the listening frequency of audio lectures.
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The Investigation of Preservice Teachers’ and Primary School Students’ Views about Online Digital Storytelling
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 51-64.
Number of views: 2450 Download in PDF
6. Muharrem Duran, Tufan AytaçEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 51-64.
Abstract:
This study was aimed at investigating the views held by preservice teachers from the department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology (CEIT) and those of 6th grade students about the process of online digital storytelling activities as it applies to the students’ education. The study was designed as a case study. The data were collected through direct observations, semi-structured interviews and surveys. The participants of the study were eight senior preservice teachers from CEIT and 47 6th grade students from Eskisehir Cagdas Private Elementary School. The study followed two stages. In the first stage, the preservice teachers from CEIT were trained in online digital storytelling; and in the second stage, the preservice teachers performed online digital storytelling activities with 6th grade students. According to the findings obtained in the study, the preservice teachers thought that carrying out digital storytelling activities in an online environment engages students’ attention, accelerates the digital storytelling process, increases communication between students and contributes to the development of students’ digital stories. In addition, both the preservice teachers and the elementary school students agreed that digital storytelling developed the students’ 21st century skills. On the other hand, the preservice teachers complained about the fact that digital storytelling activities lasted for a long period of time; that the students were reluctant to participate; and that the students copied their scenarios from the Internet; meanwhile, the students mostly complained about technical problems, about the lack of sufficient sources related to the their stories and about the extended time-taking aspect of the activity process.
This study was aimed at investigating the views held by preservice teachers from the department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology (CEIT) and those of 6th grade students about the process of online digital storytelling activities as it applies to the students’ education. The study was designed as a case study. The data were collected through direct observations, semi-structured interviews and surveys. The participants of the study were eight senior preservice teachers from CEIT and 47 6th grade students from Eskisehir Cagdas Private Elementary School. The study followed two stages. In the first stage, the preservice teachers from CEIT were trained in online digital storytelling; and in the second stage, the preservice teachers performed online digital storytelling activities with 6th grade students. According to the findings obtained in the study, the preservice teachers thought that carrying out digital storytelling activities in an online environment engages students’ attention, accelerates the digital storytelling process, increases communication between students and contributes to the development of students’ digital stories. In addition, both the preservice teachers and the elementary school students agreed that digital storytelling developed the students’ 21st century skills. On the other hand, the preservice teachers complained about the fact that digital storytelling activities lasted for a long period of time; that the students were reluctant to participate; and that the students copied their scenarios from the Internet; meanwhile, the students mostly complained about technical problems, about the lack of sufficient sources related to the their stories and about the extended time-taking aspect of the activity process.
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Students’ Opinions on the Use of Tablet Computers in Education
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 65-75.
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7. Tuncay Aydogan, Serap ErgunEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 65-75.
Abstract:
One of the most important tools for the integration of ICT in education, especially with tablet computers, has been employed in Turkey through the FATIH Project. This study aimed to determine students’ views on the use of tablet computers in learning and teaching processes. Eighty-four first-year high school students studying at three schools in service within the scope of the FATIH Pilot Project were selected as the sample of this study. The quantitative data obtained were gathered using the "Questionnaire for Students’ Opinions on the Use of Tablet Computers". The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the whole questionnaire has been measured at .82. Frequency, percentage, and arithmetic mean values have been used for the data analysis. It was found that students mostly use tablet computers to access the Internet. Students stated that the content presented on tablet computers supports the topics in textbooks and that teachers encourage them to use tablet computers in the learning and teaching process. The students also agreed that tablet computers weaken communication between students and teachers. Most of the students stated that, during the teaching process with the use of tablet computers, they do not learn more quickly and easily, they have some difficulty understanding topics, learning is not permanent, and it does not contribute to increasing their level of success. Most of the students expressed that, when they study with tablet computers for a while, they face some adverse physical effects such as headache and eyestrain, and they are worried about radiation.
One of the most important tools for the integration of ICT in education, especially with tablet computers, has been employed in Turkey through the FATIH Project. This study aimed to determine students’ views on the use of tablet computers in learning and teaching processes. Eighty-four first-year high school students studying at three schools in service within the scope of the FATIH Pilot Project were selected as the sample of this study. The quantitative data obtained were gathered using the "Questionnaire for Students’ Opinions on the Use of Tablet Computers". The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the whole questionnaire has been measured at .82. Frequency, percentage, and arithmetic mean values have been used for the data analysis. It was found that students mostly use tablet computers to access the Internet. Students stated that the content presented on tablet computers supports the topics in textbooks and that teachers encourage them to use tablet computers in the learning and teaching process. The students also agreed that tablet computers weaken communication between students and teachers. Most of the students stated that, during the teaching process with the use of tablet computers, they do not learn more quickly and easily, they have some difficulty understanding topics, learning is not permanent, and it does not contribute to increasing their level of success. Most of the students expressed that, when they study with tablet computers for a while, they face some adverse physical effects such as headache and eyestrain, and they are worried about radiation.
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A Study to Determine the Contribution made by Concept Maps to a Computer Architecture and Organization Course
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 76-83.
Number of views: 2325 Download in PDF
8. Bahar Dinçer, Süha YılmazEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 76-83.
Abstract:
Concept mapping is a method of graphical learning that can be beneficial as a study method for concept linking and organization. Concept maps, which provide an elegant, easily understood representation of an expert’s domain knowledge, are tools for organizing and representing knowledge. These tools have been used in educational environments to better connect the relationships among theory and practice as well as among other concepts covered in a course. They also help the learners build relationships between previous knowledge and newly introduced concepts, encouraging meaningful learning rather than rote learning. The overall interactions among hardware, computer basics, computer functions and etc., used to be simple and transparent enough for understanding computer systems. Nevertheless the modern computer technologies have become increasingly more complex which makes it very difficult to understand the whole system of the computers. This study is an analysis of the contribution made by concept maps to a Computer Architecture and Organization course (CAO). For a period of one semester, students were asked to prepare concept maps that they were later allowed to use when revising for their final exam. The students’ success in the exam was then evaluated and their attitudes towards the course, the concept maps and the questions on them were surveyed and analyzed. The results lead to the conclusion that not only did concept maps make a positive contribution to the students’ overall success during the course, they also helped with their exam preparation.
Concept mapping is a method of graphical learning that can be beneficial as a study method for concept linking and organization. Concept maps, which provide an elegant, easily understood representation of an expert’s domain knowledge, are tools for organizing and representing knowledge. These tools have been used in educational environments to better connect the relationships among theory and practice as well as among other concepts covered in a course. They also help the learners build relationships between previous knowledge and newly introduced concepts, encouraging meaningful learning rather than rote learning. The overall interactions among hardware, computer basics, computer functions and etc., used to be simple and transparent enough for understanding computer systems. Nevertheless the modern computer technologies have become increasingly more complex which makes it very difficult to understand the whole system of the computers. This study is an analysis of the contribution made by concept maps to a Computer Architecture and Organization course (CAO). For a period of one semester, students were asked to prepare concept maps that they were later allowed to use when revising for their final exam. The students’ success in the exam was then evaluated and their attitudes towards the course, the concept maps and the questions on them were surveyed and analyzed. The results lead to the conclusion that not only did concept maps make a positive contribution to the students’ overall success during the course, they also helped with their exam preparation.
Number of views: 2325 Download in PDF
An Investigation into the Perceptions of Mathematics and Information Literacy Self-Efficacy Levels of Pre-Service Primary Mathematics Teachers
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 84-93.
Number of views: 2331 Download in PDF
9. Abdulkadir Yüzen, Ayşen KarameteEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 84-93.
Abstract:
The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels for both mathematics literacy and information literacy in pre-service primary mathematics teachers and the factors on which the relationship depends (variables include gender, class level, hours spent reading books and computer-access facilities). The research model is a relational-survey model of the quantitative patterns. According to the results, it was determined that there was a positive relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels of mathematics literacy and information literacy in pre-service teachers. Separately, it was ascertained that mathematics literacy self-efficacy levels in pre-service teachers showed meaningful differences according to variables such as class level and book-reading frequency/rate, whereas their information literacy self-efficacy levels depended on variables such as gender and computer-access status. According to these results, when considering the factors influencing literacy levels, it is seen that the variables such as computer-access status and book-reading frequency/rate are significant in terms of the pre-service teachers having these positive features. In addition, for future researches it can be examine the relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels for both mathematics literacy and information literacy in in-service primary mathematics teachers and the different factors on which the relationship depends.
The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels for both mathematics literacy and information literacy in pre-service primary mathematics teachers and the factors on which the relationship depends (variables include gender, class level, hours spent reading books and computer-access facilities). The research model is a relational-survey model of the quantitative patterns. According to the results, it was determined that there was a positive relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels of mathematics literacy and information literacy in pre-service teachers. Separately, it was ascertained that mathematics literacy self-efficacy levels in pre-service teachers showed meaningful differences according to variables such as class level and book-reading frequency/rate, whereas their information literacy self-efficacy levels depended on variables such as gender and computer-access status. According to these results, when considering the factors influencing literacy levels, it is seen that the variables such as computer-access status and book-reading frequency/rate are significant in terms of the pre-service teachers having these positive features. In addition, for future researches it can be examine the relationship between perceptions of the self-efficacy levels for both mathematics literacy and information literacy in in-service primary mathematics teachers and the different factors on which the relationship depends.
Number of views: 2331 Download in PDF
Computer Assisted Educational Material Preparation for Fourth Grade Primary School Students’ English Language Class in Teaching Numbers
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 94-104.
Number of views: 2340 Download in PDF
10. Hilal Karakış, Ayşen Karamete, Aydın OkçuEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 94-104.
Abstract:
In this study, using ADDIE instructional design model, it is aimed to prepare English language educational material for 4th grade primary students to teach them numbers. At the same time, ARCS model of motivation’s attention, relevance and satisfaction phases are also taken into consideration. This study also comprises of Design Based Research which includes design, theory and application processes. The first phase of the ADDIE method is the analysis where there is a discussion with primary school English language teachers so as to determine the topic, the content and the target groups. During the design phase; objectives, strategies, activities, assessments, and methods of learning are determined to organize and present the content on the basis of learning objectives. In the development phase; images, animations and user interface are created in accordance with students’ ages. Additionally, sounds including the pronunciation of digits and numbers are created and the codes of the visual scenarios that are designed are written in ActionScript 2.0 in Adobe Flash CS3 Professional. At the implementation phase, some of the target group students are tested with prototype material that has been implemented. In the classroom, students learn both the pronunciation and the spelling of the numbers. After checking their spelling and typing errors of numbers with quizzes, the students repeat what they have learned and then they take the spelling quizzes. The program checks the misspelled words. Students who correctly complete the quizzes are entitled to have one flag. And when they have all the flags (4 flag), they receive a certificate of achievement. With this rewarding technique, it is intended to raise the motivation of the students. Finally, at the evaluation step, the observed problems in the materials are revised. At every stage of the process, expert evaluations are consulted. With this study that is based on ADDIE instructional designed model and ARCS motivational model, it is expected that students enjoy learning pronunciation and the spelling of the numbers in a semi-game environment.
In this study, using ADDIE instructional design model, it is aimed to prepare English language educational material for 4th grade primary students to teach them numbers. At the same time, ARCS model of motivation’s attention, relevance and satisfaction phases are also taken into consideration. This study also comprises of Design Based Research which includes design, theory and application processes. The first phase of the ADDIE method is the analysis where there is a discussion with primary school English language teachers so as to determine the topic, the content and the target groups. During the design phase; objectives, strategies, activities, assessments, and methods of learning are determined to organize and present the content on the basis of learning objectives. In the development phase; images, animations and user interface are created in accordance with students’ ages. Additionally, sounds including the pronunciation of digits and numbers are created and the codes of the visual scenarios that are designed are written in ActionScript 2.0 in Adobe Flash CS3 Professional. At the implementation phase, some of the target group students are tested with prototype material that has been implemented. In the classroom, students learn both the pronunciation and the spelling of the numbers. After checking their spelling and typing errors of numbers with quizzes, the students repeat what they have learned and then they take the spelling quizzes. The program checks the misspelled words. Students who correctly complete the quizzes are entitled to have one flag. And when they have all the flags (4 flag), they receive a certificate of achievement. With this rewarding technique, it is intended to raise the motivation of the students. Finally, at the evaluation step, the observed problems in the materials are revised. At every stage of the process, expert evaluations are consulted. With this study that is based on ADDIE instructional designed model and ARCS motivational model, it is expected that students enjoy learning pronunciation and the spelling of the numbers in a semi-game environment.
Number of views: 2340 Download in PDF
The Effects of a Computer-Assisted Teaching Material, Designed According to the ASSURE Instructional Design and the ARCS Model of Motivation, on Students’ Achievement Levels in a Mathematics Lesson and Their Resulting Attitudes
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 105-113.
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11. Serpil Günaydin, Ayşen KarameteEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 105-113.
Abstract:
This study examined the effects that computer-assisted instruction had on students’ attitudes toward a mathematics lesson and toward learning mathematics with computer-assisted instruction. The computer software we used was based on the ASSURE Instructional Systems Design and the ARCS Model of Motivation, and the software was designed to teach fractions to fourth-grade students. The skill levels of these students were gauged before and after receiving the computer-assisted instruction. We structured our experimental design to use one group for both pre- and post-tests, which is considered to be one of the weak experimental designs. We conducted our research with 28 students studying in Balıkesir, Turkey, for a period of six weeks, using the specifically developed teaching material. We gathered our research data by applying an attitude scale to our mathematics lesson and to computer-assisted instruction. We also applied the Academic Achievement Test for Fractions Unit in Mathematics, a test we developed for our research. We analyzed our gathered data with the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test (n<30) by using the statistical software SPSS 15. The conducted analyses showed that the activities of the developed instructional material had positively affected the attitude of the students toward computer-assisted instruction (z=-2.807, p< 0.05) and increased their academic success (z=-4.623, p<0.05). Although the attitude scale toward our mathematics lesson indicated an increase in their scores, this increase was not found statistically significant (z=-2.807, p>0.05). Based on the research results, we believe that similar materials can also be used for instructing other topics of mathematics, and similar computer-assisted activities can be developed for other courses.
This study examined the effects that computer-assisted instruction had on students’ attitudes toward a mathematics lesson and toward learning mathematics with computer-assisted instruction. The computer software we used was based on the ASSURE Instructional Systems Design and the ARCS Model of Motivation, and the software was designed to teach fractions to fourth-grade students. The skill levels of these students were gauged before and after receiving the computer-assisted instruction. We structured our experimental design to use one group for both pre- and post-tests, which is considered to be one of the weak experimental designs. We conducted our research with 28 students studying in Balıkesir, Turkey, for a period of six weeks, using the specifically developed teaching material. We gathered our research data by applying an attitude scale to our mathematics lesson and to computer-assisted instruction. We also applied the Academic Achievement Test for Fractions Unit in Mathematics, a test we developed for our research. We analyzed our gathered data with the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test (n<30) by using the statistical software SPSS 15. The conducted analyses showed that the activities of the developed instructional material had positively affected the attitude of the students toward computer-assisted instruction (z=-2.807, p< 0.05) and increased their academic success (z=-4.623, p<0.05). Although the attitude scale toward our mathematics lesson indicated an increase in their scores, this increase was not found statistically significant (z=-2.807, p>0.05). Based on the research results, we believe that similar materials can also be used for instructing other topics of mathematics, and similar computer-assisted activities can be developed for other courses.
Number of views: 2344 Download in PDF
Material Development to Raise Awareness of Using Smart Boards: An Example Design and Development Research
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 114-122.
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12. Hasan Güner BerkantEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 114-122.
Abstract:
This study aims to develop training material that will help raise awareness in prospective teachers regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. In this study, a Type 2 design and development research method (DDR) was used. The material was developed by applying phases of ADDIE – an instructional systems design model. The development process was informed by Mayer’s multimedia design principles and Gagné’s instructional events. The subject and the target group of the research was defined at the stage of needs analysis. Powtoon, an online content development tool, was used to produce multimedia material with the aim of raising awareness regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. An expert instructional designer guided the entire process of the material development. Upon completion of the development phase, three field experts were consulted and improvements were then conducted in compliance with their suggestions. Next, the material was presented to 39 teacher candidates. After they reviewed the material, their opinions were collected. These opinions were analyzed under four aspects: message, visual, sound, and overall effect. The material reached its final form following the applications of ameliorations in line with observations conducted during its application and the feedback given by the teacher candidates. Participants of the study stated that the material, on the whole, was impressive, beneficial, and captivating.
This study aims to develop training material that will help raise awareness in prospective teachers regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. In this study, a Type 2 design and development research method (DDR) was used. The material was developed by applying phases of ADDIE – an instructional systems design model. The development process was informed by Mayer’s multimedia design principles and Gagné’s instructional events. The subject and the target group of the research was defined at the stage of needs analysis. Powtoon, an online content development tool, was used to produce multimedia material with the aim of raising awareness regarding the benefits of using smart boards in the classroom. An expert instructional designer guided the entire process of the material development. Upon completion of the development phase, three field experts were consulted and improvements were then conducted in compliance with their suggestions. Next, the material was presented to 39 teacher candidates. After they reviewed the material, their opinions were collected. These opinions were analyzed under four aspects: message, visual, sound, and overall effect. The material reached its final form following the applications of ameliorations in line with observations conducted during its application and the feedback given by the teacher candidates. Participants of the study stated that the material, on the whole, was impressive, beneficial, and captivating.
Number of views: 2369 Download in PDF
Faculty of Education Students’ Computer Self-Efficacy Beliefs and their Attitudes towards Computers and Implementing Computer Supported Education
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 123-135.
Number of views: 2331 Download in PDF
13. Nilgün TosunEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 123-135.
Abstract:
This study investigates faculty of education students’ computer self-efficacy beliefs and their attitudes towards computers and implementing computer supported education. This study is descriptive and based on a correlational survey model. The final sample consisted of 414 students studying in the faculty of education of a Turkish university. The results show that male students have higher computer self-efficacy beliefs; major and class level variables do not affect students' computer attitudes and self-efficacies; students who have their own PC have more positive computer attitudes and higher computer self-efficacies; and the time spent on a computer each day and computer experience are correlated with computer attitudes and self-efficacies.
This study investigates faculty of education students’ computer self-efficacy beliefs and their attitudes towards computers and implementing computer supported education. This study is descriptive and based on a correlational survey model. The final sample consisted of 414 students studying in the faculty of education of a Turkish university. The results show that male students have higher computer self-efficacy beliefs; major and class level variables do not affect students' computer attitudes and self-efficacies; students who have their own PC have more positive computer attitudes and higher computer self-efficacies; and the time spent on a computer each day and computer experience are correlated with computer attitudes and self-efficacies.
Number of views: 2331 Download in PDF
Cyberbully and Victim Experiences of Pre-service Teachers
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 136-146.
Number of views: 2408 Download in PDF
14. Gamze Yalavaç, Yavuz SamurEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 136-146.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of different types of cyber bullying, the ways in which cyber bullying occurred, whether the identity of cyber bullies were known, and reaction to being cyber bullied among pre-service teachers. Relationships between gender and likelihood of being a cyber bully/victim were also investigated. Using a questionnaire based on the Cyber Bully and Victim Scale developed by [1], males were found to engage in cyber bullying more than females. Cyber bullying mainly occurred through e-mail, text messages, and phone calls. Although most cyber bullying victims talked with others about their experience, most cyber bullies did not talk about their harmful behavior to others. Victims often did not know the cyber bully and ignored the cyber bullying when it occurred.
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of different types of cyber bullying, the ways in which cyber bullying occurred, whether the identity of cyber bullies were known, and reaction to being cyber bullied among pre-service teachers. Relationships between gender and likelihood of being a cyber bully/victim were also investigated. Using a questionnaire based on the Cyber Bully and Victim Scale developed by [1], males were found to engage in cyber bullying more than females. Cyber bullying mainly occurred through e-mail, text messages, and phone calls. Although most cyber bullying victims talked with others about their experience, most cyber bullies did not talk about their harmful behavior to others. Victims often did not know the cyber bully and ignored the cyber bullying when it occurred.
Number of views: 2408 Download in PDF
Students’ and Teachers’ Perceptions of After School Online Course
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 147-162.
Number of views: 2492 Download in PDF
15. Zülfü Genç, Hasan TinmazEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 147-162.
Abstract:
This study analyzes students' and teachers' perceptions of after school online courses (ASOC) undertaken by an institutional private middle school, which manages several campuses across Turkey. The aim of ASOC is to support students when they are home by helping them to revise the lessons, practice topics synchronously with hundreds of other students. The results of the survey, interviews, and observations show that both students and teachers prefer face-to-face lessons to online lessons. They think that ASOC can be effective only if it is implemented in small groups with more interaction and sound instructional design with engaging methods and adequate feedback is structured for students and teachers’ needs. This study may contribute to similar future research studies of online education in middle schools by revealing the upsides and downsides of this blended learning environment with recommendations offered.
This study analyzes students' and teachers' perceptions of after school online courses (ASOC) undertaken by an institutional private middle school, which manages several campuses across Turkey. The aim of ASOC is to support students when they are home by helping them to revise the lessons, practice topics synchronously with hundreds of other students. The results of the survey, interviews, and observations show that both students and teachers prefer face-to-face lessons to online lessons. They think that ASOC can be effective only if it is implemented in small groups with more interaction and sound instructional design with engaging methods and adequate feedback is structured for students and teachers’ needs. This study may contribute to similar future research studies of online education in middle schools by revealing the upsides and downsides of this blended learning environment with recommendations offered.
Number of views: 2492 Download in PDF
The Perception on Fundamentals of Online Courses: A Case on Prospective Instructional Designers
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 163-172.
Number of views: 2330 Download in PDF
16. İsmail İpek, Ömer Faruk SözcüEuropean Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 163-172.
Abstract:
This study focuses on prospective instructional designers’ perception toward creating online courses including which elements are essential for developing such platforms. The study is significant for revealing what the prospective instructional designers focus on while they design certain learning opportunities. The participants of the study were the “Computer Education and Instructional Technology (CEIT)” students from a university in Turkey (n=133) ranging from freshman to senior grades. Since the study aimed to obtain data to determine specific characteristics of a group, a non-experimental survey research design was employed. The participants were asked to assess the importance of fifteen online course elements (such as texts and videos). Afterwards, the participants were provided with seventeen sentences to reveal their thorough perceptions toward designing online courses. The study identified that the participants value feedback mechanism (M=4.69) at the most. The participants believed that the type of web browsers (M=4.50), the course login system (M=4.48), emailing tools (M=4.42), texts (M=4.32) and pictures (M=4.22) are fundamental elements of any online course. The study revealed that prospective instructional designers for online platforms were furnished themselves with the essence of offering online instructional activities. In this study as an example of gender related study, the significant differences on study items were found between males and females participants in terms of their perceptions on online courses. The results showed that voice mechanism was more important for female participants than male and female participants were logically-oriented and visual learners’ during the entire online session.
This study focuses on prospective instructional designers’ perception toward creating online courses including which elements are essential for developing such platforms. The study is significant for revealing what the prospective instructional designers focus on while they design certain learning opportunities. The participants of the study were the “Computer Education and Instructional Technology (CEIT)” students from a university in Turkey (n=133) ranging from freshman to senior grades. Since the study aimed to obtain data to determine specific characteristics of a group, a non-experimental survey research design was employed. The participants were asked to assess the importance of fifteen online course elements (such as texts and videos). Afterwards, the participants were provided with seventeen sentences to reveal their thorough perceptions toward designing online courses. The study identified that the participants value feedback mechanism (M=4.69) at the most. The participants believed that the type of web browsers (M=4.50), the course login system (M=4.48), emailing tools (M=4.42), texts (M=4.32) and pictures (M=4.22) are fundamental elements of any online course. The study revealed that prospective instructional designers for online platforms were furnished themselves with the essence of offering online instructional activities. In this study as an example of gender related study, the significant differences on study items were found between males and females participants in terms of their perceptions on online courses. The results showed that voice mechanism was more important for female participants than male and female participants were logically-oriented and visual learners’ during the entire online session.
Number of views: 2330 Download in PDF
Preferences and Attitudes for Using Interactive Whiteboards in Different Courses and Learning
European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 173-184.
Number of views: 2399 Download in PDF
17. European Journal of Contemporary Education, 2016, Vol.(15), Is. 1, pp. 173-184.
Abstract:
The purpose of the study is to investigate teachers’ and students’ considerations, preferences, attitudes and awareness related to using Interactive Whiteboards in 7-12 grades and different courses, and learning. 1013 students from elementary and secondary schools and 65 teachers from different schools were selected to take questionnaire for defining their preferences and awareness for using IWBs in teaching and learning processes. Descriptive statistical analyses were used to investigate whether there were differences between students’ and teachers’ views based on the survey items. The tests of research questions generated discussion and conclusions were given at the end of the study.
The purpose of the study is to investigate teachers’ and students’ considerations, preferences, attitudes and awareness related to using Interactive Whiteboards in 7-12 grades and different courses, and learning. 1013 students from elementary and secondary schools and 65 teachers from different schools were selected to take questionnaire for defining their preferences and awareness for using IWBs in teaching and learning processes. Descriptive statistical analyses were used to investigate whether there were differences between students’ and teachers’ views based on the survey items. The tests of research questions generated discussion and conclusions were given at the end of the study.
Number of views: 2399 Download in PDF