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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 May 2023

Yuni Tri Hewindati, Sri Kurniati Handayani, Aminudin Zuhairi and Raflen Aril Gerungan

This article presented the results of studies that examined the appropriateness of the content, readability of printed learning materials and the effectiveness of external…

Abstract

Purpose

This article presented the results of studies that examined the appropriateness of the content, readability of printed learning materials and the effectiveness of external resources in ecology course offered at Universitas Terbuka. To integrate external resources, links to their websites were provided in the printed materials.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth interview with a content expert was employed to review the course content, while digital and printed learning materials were reviewed for readability and to determine the usefulness of the external resources. A total of 47 students completed surveys and a focus group discussion that included in-depth interviews were conducted with 21 selected students.

Findings

The results revealed that the content of ecology course was conceptually valid. However, two key aspects needed to be emphasized, including the application of ecology phenomena for further development of the science and its applications in real-life situations. Regarding readability, students stated that the course materials were easily comprehended. In terms of the benefit, 79% of the students found the external resources interesting and helpful in understanding the learning materials.

Practical implications

Printed learning materials were crucial for students, specifically those residing in remote areas. Therefore, the institution should ensure that the materials were high-quality, easy to comprehend and enriched with up-to-date content/materials through scannable links to external resources.

Originality/value

The value added to the findings of this study was that the provision of links to external resources within printed learning materials improves students' understanding of the course content.

Details

Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1858-3431

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 March 2009

Yuni Tri Hewindati and Aminudin Zuhairi

Conducting biological science practicum at UT involves a series of activities, ranging from registration, implementation, practicum learning support, and evaluation of student…

1815

Abstract

Conducting biological science practicum at UT involves a series of activities, ranging from registration, implementation, practicum learning support, and evaluation of student learning. Some important factors to consider in conducting science practicum at a distance include location, student conditions, and availability of the needed resources. UT science practicum involves the use of resources of partner universities, so the practicum is conducted during the semester break of the partner institution. In order to be financially viable, practicum is conducted when there are a minimum of 8 participating students, otherwise students will have to meet the minimum quota of the practicum cost.

Details

Asian Association of Open Universities Journal, vol. 4 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1858-3431

Keywords

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