Research and evaluation of the effectiveness of e - learning : a Linear Programming case study

Miletić, Ljiljana. (2014). Research and evaluation of the effectiveness of e - learning : a Linear Programming case study. PhD Thesis. Filozofski fakultet u Zagrebu, Department of Information Science
Department of Information Science > Chair of knowledge organization.
(Poslijediplomski doktorski studij informacijskih i komunikacijskih znanosti) [mentor Lešaja, Goran and Lasić-Lazić, Jadranka].

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Abstract

In the thesis an implementation of the e-learning for the case of Linear Programming (LP) module of lectures is considered. Furthermore, an action research methodology was used to examine the effectiveness of e-learning approach versus classical learning techniques. At the first stage of the research, an e-learning module of LP lectures has been created using Loomen Moodle software and other interactive software used within such as Geogebra. In addition to classical material, such as Simplex Method (SM), the module contains a section on new methods in LP, called Interior-Point Methods (IPM). At the second stage of the research, a study of the effectiveness of e-learning was conducted. The LP module was taught as a short course to two groups of students with statistically insignificant differences in background knowledge, previous academic performance and other academic indicators. These two groups of students are sophomores at the Gimnazija Pozega, Pozega, Croatia. Total of 60 students participated in the project, 31 student in class 2.a and 29 students in class 2.b. In one group, class 2.b, the module was taught using classical in class teaching methods while in the other group, class 2.a, the module was taught using e-learning approach. The teaching process was monitored using Action Research Methodology (ARM). Detailed ARM plan was created and followed which included writing a diary, collection of comments from students and “critical friends”, and collection of statistical data measuring progress and success in the course. The ARM served the dual purpose, of monitoring the delivery of the course and of dynamically improving it based on the students' and critical friends comments. At the last stage of the research, after the delivery of the course, the collected data was analyzed and validated and statistical analysis was performed showing that the group of students that was taking the course using e-learning approach performed better than the group that used classical teaching approach. Hence, the initial thesis that can be formulated as follows: The e- learning methodology if implemented correctly, which requires significant preparation and planning, leads to the improved understanding, acquisition and retention of the material being taught; has been validated. On the more general note, this project reemphasizes the view that investment in incorporating information technologies in the educational process will have significant benefits in enhancing students' learning. Hence, e-learning should, and is becoming, more and more integral part of the regular school practice. However, the successful incorporation of e-learning presents a challenge because it requires careful preparation and planning, initially requiring an additional effort both from teachers and students. The resistance from teacher may be harder to overcome while students may accept e-learning environment more naturally because they have been growing up in information age surrounded by variety of information technology products.

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