Diversifying higher education: facilitating different ways of learning

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to demonstrate how higher education in Finland can benefit from using methods such as Web 2.0 technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes how different types of learners (auditory, visual, kinaesthetic) benefit from being exposed to new methods and tools in the tuition process (traditional teaching settings). The strengths and weaknesses of these alternative teaching methods and tools are assessed. The paper is based on a case study – a pilot project – where the Prezi presentation tool and Twitter were tested and used in a university teaching setting. Findings – The results of the study show that both students and faculty found the utilization of Prezi and Twitter in teaching improved the learning and teaching experience.

Originality/value

In Finland, the use of Prezi and Twitter in the classroom is not common. The results of this study should help encourage other teachers in Finland to implement new methods and tools in the tuition process.

Citation

Virtanen, P., Myllärniemi, J. and Wallander, H. (2013), "Diversifying higher education: facilitating different ways of learning", Campus-Wide Information Systems, Vol. 30 No. 3, pp. 201-211. https://doi.org/10.1108/10650741311330384