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Article
Publication date: 26 March 2024

Bridget McDaid

This paper aims to present commentary on adult safeguarding designated officers’ (nominated senior staff members in the Health Service Executive and its funded services) in…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to present commentary on adult safeguarding designated officers’ (nominated senior staff members in the Health Service Executive and its funded services) in Ireland readiness for online learning and their perception of the blended approach used in their training and considers the implications of this for practice.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 233 designated officers were surveyed. A self-administered online survey comprising of two instruments was used. The questionnaire combines two previously validated tools measuring readiness for online learning and perceptions of blended learning. Minor modifications were made to account for local circumstance and language. Demographic questions relevant to the survey population were added. The response rate was 49%.

Findings

Designated officers regarded specified competencies for online learning as important to very important with highest importance placed in time management. Designated officers expressed they were confident to very confident in their ability to accomplish all competencies in online learning. The highest confidence was in the technical competencies. Designated officers are demonstrating high readiness for online learning. Designated officers reported positively on online contributions and on blended learning workload. The scores indicate positive perceptions of the blended learning experience. Responses to an open-ended question were largely positive with some suggestions for improvement made.

Practical implications

Findings have helped inform planning and development of the Health Service Executive’s adult safeguarding training for designated officers with changes made since this survey was undertaken.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first time a survey was undertaken of designated officers in Ireland with a view to improving safeguarding training. Recommendations for adaptions to the blended designated officer programme were proposed and subsequently accepted and implemented.

Details

The Journal of Adult Protection, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1466-8203

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 February 2024

Hajar Chetioui, Hind Lebdaoui, Oumaima Adelli, Fatima Zahra Bendriouch, Youssef Chetioui and Kawtar Lebdaoui

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, most higher education institutes shifted to online learning as the sole alternative to continuing education while mitigating the risks imposed by…

Abstract

Purpose

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, most higher education institutes shifted to online learning as the sole alternative to continuing education while mitigating the risks imposed by the pandemic. This has raised several concerns regarding students’ learning experience, satisfaction and academic achievement, particularly in countries where students have restrained technological resources (i.e. developing nations). The current research aims to investigate the key factors influencing students’ attitudes, satisfaction and academic achievement among university students in an emerging market context (i.e. Morocco). The moderating effect of students’ motivation to study online was also scrutinized.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose an integrated conceptual framework that combines the technology acceptance model (TAM) with the outcomes of prior literature related to online learning. Based on data collected from 850 Moroccan university students, the authors empirically tested the conceptual model using a partial least squares (PLS) estimation.

Findings

First, attitude toward online learning and satisfaction positively impact university students’ academic achievement; at the same time, attitude positively impacts students’ satisfaction with online learning. Second, students’ satisfaction and attitude toward online learning were found to be mainly influenced by instructor performance, ease of use of the online learning platform, information quality, interactivity and perceived usefulness (PU). Finally, student motivation acts as a moderator, e.g. students with higher motivation to learn online are more likely to develop a favorable attitude toward online learning and can, therefore, accomplish better academic performance.

Originality/value

The current study makes a considerable contribution to the literature by contributing to the on-going debate about the potentials and challenges of online learning, particularly in an emerging country where education remains a considerable challenge. The study findings can help higher education institutes gauge the quality of online education programs and design efficient strategies to develop high-quality online learning for students. Our findings have implications not only for educational institutions and instructors in developing markets but also for the vendors of online course delivery software.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 February 2024

Lei Wen and Danya Mi

Based on student responses to a set of customized questionnaires, this study aims to present evidence that while student evaluations of instructors and courses remain consistent…

Abstract

Purpose

Based on student responses to a set of customized questionnaires, this study aims to present evidence that while student evaluations of instructors and courses remain consistent, a designated mobile app enhances perceived online learning experience.

Design/methodology/approach

This study addresses quality assurance issues in accelerated online graduate-level education by identifying factors that influence nontraditional adult student preferences for using mobile applications (apps).

Findings

It is evident that affordability and functionality are the two most important determinants of nontraditional student preferences for app-based learning, followed by mobility and ease of purchase.

Originality/value

These findings underscore the potential of app learning to bolster positive perceptions of online education. Findings of this study imply that integrating additional app learning tools can be used as a quality assurance mechanism and enhance nontraditional students’ satisfaction through improving their perceived online learning experience.

Details

Quality Assurance in Education, vol. 32 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0968-4883

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 9 January 2024

Hajira Batool and Abdur Rashid

The purpose of this study is a comparative analysis of psychological distress between online and on-campus learning among university students. The study was performed to…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is a comparative analysis of psychological distress between online and on-campus learning among university students. The study was performed to investigate the comparative analysis of psychological distress between online and on-campus learning among university students.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a quantitative, comparative study. Data were collected through convenient sampling technique from different university students. The sample size of the study was (n = 200) and the sample was taken from universities. Three scales, students’ readiness learning scale, DASS-21 Scale and on-campus learning scale, were used for data collection and the data were analyzed statistically. The analysis was carried out by the statistical tests correlation test, t-test and linear regression.

Findings

It was revealed through this study that on-campus learning is more preferred by the students than online learning. The findings were that online learning has more psychological distress among students than on-campus learning. Additionally, it was found that as compared to males, females have more tendency toward depression, anxiety and stress. Findings also revealed that married students have a larger tendency toward depression, anxiety and stress as compared to unmarried students. No socioeconomic significance difference was found. Moreover, it was revealed that working students prefer online learning to on-campus learning.

Practical implications

Learning has a significant impact on students’ future settlement, independence and well-being. The findings of this research study can contribute to understanding the educational system and determining which learning system is better for students and for the students’ mental well-being.

Originality/value

Learning has a significant impact on students’ future settlement, independence and well-being. This paper contributes by offering practical insights for educators and policymakers.

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 January 2024

Daniella G. Varela, Kelly S. Hall, Ya Wen Melissa Liang, Angelica Cerda and Laura Rodriguez

The purpose of this study was to understand perspectives of doctoral students about their compulsory online experience and aspects of their compulsory online experiences which…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to understand perspectives of doctoral students about their compulsory online experience and aspects of their compulsory online experiences which were strongly associated as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, a disorienting dilemma.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory descriptive survey research was the approach taken. Notable descriptors and associations were interpreted based on statistical analysis complimented by respondent comments.

Findings

Respondents included students who were at various stages of completing their doctoral degree. Overall findings indicated preference for face-to-face classes, the switch to online learning was well-received, primarily as a result of perceptions of quick and supportive communication from doctoral program leadership, strong student and instructor connections, and high-quality collaborative opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

The COVID-19 pandemic represented a disorienting dilemma provoking cognitive dissonance among doctoral students who were compelled to move from a hybrid to a completely online learning model. Fear, anger and discontent induced by broken assumptions were mitigated through shared experiences creating new meaning and habits of mind in the process of adjusting to new expectations. Study results reveal that engagement, collaboration and support among instructors and classmates eased the transformative process transitioning into online learning.

Practical implications

The results of this study provided real-time understanding of students' needs in order to be successful in the quest and persistence of doctoral study online. Though the process of seeking official and state approvals to move the educational leadership doctoral program fully online, program faculty made a series of teaching and program adaptations informed by these results.

Originality/value

Research about doctoral student experiences during a compulsory transition from a hybrid to online delivery model has not been explored and offers original perspective to improve future practice transitioning into online programs for student acceptance, engagement and retention.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2024

Adedapo Oluwaseyi Ojo, Sumitha Ravichander, Christine Nya-Ling Tan, Lilian Anthonysamy and Chris Niyi Arasanmi

The lack of physical contact and the absence of nonverbal clues could make some learners uncomfortable interacting with others via online learning platforms. Hence, understanding…

Abstract

Purpose

The lack of physical contact and the absence of nonverbal clues could make some learners uncomfortable interacting with others via online learning platforms. Hence, understanding the determinants of students' motivation and engagement in online learning platforms is crucial in harnessing digital technology as an enabler of unrestricted and quality learning experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the self-determination theory (SDT), this study investigates the factors associated with student’s motivation to learn (MOL) and their influence on online learning engagement (OLE). Data were collected from 228 university students from the Klang Valley region of Malaysia using the online survey method.

Findings

The results of data analysis using the partial least squares structural equation modeling indicate that self-directed learning, computer and Internet self-efficacy and online communication self-efficacy significantly influence MOL. Besides, these factors indirectly influence OLE through MOL.

Originality/value

This study adds to the SDT framework by demonstrating how students' perceptions of autonomy, competence and relatedness through online interaction relate to MOL and OLE.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Ridwan Daud Mahande, Nurul Mukhlisah Abdal and Nasir Nasir

This paper aims to investigate the effect of learning styles on HyFlex learning towards equity of learning in higher education.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of learning styles on HyFlex learning towards equity of learning in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach was used, with data collection through a structured online questionnaire. The study participants were undergraduate students (n = 451) studying at various public and private universities in Indonesia. Measurement analysis is used to test the validity of the instrument used. Analysis of structural equations is used to test the relationships between the constructs under study.

Findings

Survey instruments have satisfactory internal validity and consistency. The learning style of students in higher education positively influences the use of HyFlex’s three learning modalities. All three modalities of HyFlex learning positively affect learning equity, especially the asynchronous online modality. However, the synchronous online effect is insignificant. Active/reflective learning styles only affect face-to-face mode but do not significantly affect the two online modalities, synchronous and asynchronous. Some of the learning style dimensions have an indirect effect on equity through three HyFlex learning modalities. Face-to-face and online asynchronous mediate well the indirect relationship between learning style and equity. The impact of gender and higher education status was not shown to strengthen the relationship between learning styles, HyFlex learning modalities and equity.

Research limitations/implications

This study will provide valuable understanding for lecturers, educators and developers to adapt and develop HyFlex learning strategies based on the positive dimensions of the Felder–Silverman learning style that can support equitable and inclusive learning. The study forms a foundation for researchers to investigate more constructs that could improve HyFlex learning in future studies.

Originality/value

This research is a pioneer in using learning styles to investigate trends in using three HyFlex learning modalities, particularly emphasising modalities that can provide equitable learning.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 12 January 2024

Mohd Hanafi Azman Ong and Nur Syafikah Ibrahim

Since there is lack of studies in determine factors that affecting enjoyment sentiment when using online learning system, this study aims to explore the antecedents of perceived…

Abstract

Purpose

Since there is lack of studies in determine factors that affecting enjoyment sentiment when using online learning system, this study aims to explore the antecedents of perceived online learning enjoyment by using extended technology acceptance model (TAM) and its effect on behavioral intentions (BIN) among higher education institutions students.

Design/methodology/approach

The research framework was empirically evaluated using a cross-sectional research design and the data was collected from 715 undergraduate students from public higher education institutions in Malaysia using an online survey method. A structural equation modeling using partial least square method was used to examine the hypothesized model.

Findings

The results of partial least squares structural equation modeling indicated that the main predictive variables of TAM along with the extended variables were significantly influence the perceived online learning enjoyment. Meanwhile, the analysis also identified that perceived online learning enjoyment can significantly generate positive BIN for using online learning platforms as well as it also plays as a significant mediator role.

Practical implications

This study has significant implications for higher education institutions that wish to develop online learning environment for their students by providing answers to higher education institutions on how to successfully use the learning management system to assist students' learning performance from the aspect of online learning enjoyment sentiment.

Originality/value

This study is remarkable because it is the first attempt to explore the effect of these five predictors on students' learning enjoyment toward online learning platforms and subsequently on BIN to use this learning platforms, especially in the context of Malaysian higher education system. It is also unique in the way to extend the use of TAM predictive variables with others variables to produce more informative results about the study. Hence, this study also has a new contribution in the literature in the domain of digital learning.

Details

The International Journal of Information and Learning Technology, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4880

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 6 November 2023

Serpil Meri-Yilan

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic forced many educational institutions to move face-to-face education to entirely online education. This digital transformation has, in turn…

Abstract

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic forced many educational institutions to move face-to-face education to entirely online education. This digital transformation has, in turn, reinforced the digital divide between learners who have easy access to digital devices and the Internet and other learners who do not have those. In addition to the digital divide, the differences in their genders and educational levels potentially impact leveling up learning. Therefore, the study in the present chapter has aimed to examine university-level sophomore and junior students’ differences in learning online during the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of gender, educational level, and the digital divide. Data from a survey indicate that both females and males, and sophomores and juniors had different attitudes toward using digital devices, attending virtual classes and accessing online courses through the mobile phone or the home Internet. Based on the findings on their differences, the chapter makes some implications and recommendations for policymakers, course designers and teachers in the course design, especially in the emergence.

Details

Higher Education in Emergencies: International Case Studies
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83797-345-3

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 December 2023

Megawati Soekarno, Mohamad Isa Abd Jalil, Suddin Lada, Siti Hajar Samsu, Mohammad Zulfakhairi Mokthar and Shariff Umar Shariff Abd Kadir

The world after the pandemic of Covid-19 is looking at a different environment in teaching and learning and primarily being influenced by general online learning readiness…

Abstract

Purpose

The world after the pandemic of Covid-19 is looking at a different environment in teaching and learning and primarily being influenced by general online learning readiness. Perception towards the measurement of online learning readiness would also need to change. This study seeks to determine whether Malaysian undergraduate students are ready to study online if the Movement Control Order (MCO) is reimposed.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an online poll, this study analysed 299 undergraduate students from Malaysia's public and private universities. The collected data were then analysed using SmartPLS software to test the measurement model and structural equation modelling.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that computer self-efficacy and self-directed learning have a substantially positive link with online learning preparedness among Malaysian undergraduate students.

Research limitations/implications

Findings in this study indicate that universities should draw comprehensive plans to enhance students' readiness in terms of indicators such as technology usage, technology availability, computer and internet efficacy, self-directed learning and attitude. One of the aspects that require change is online communication self-efficacy. Thus, there is a need for improvement, or this would affect undergraduates adversely, especially in the event of future MCO.

Originality/value

The originality of this article lies in the time frame this study was conducted, where cases of coronavirus infection are seen to increase around the world and there is a possibility that movement restrictions will be re-enforced. The findings in this study are expected to give insight to the government in the effort of the national higher education plan. By not undervaluing previous research models, this research model should give a new perspective to the academic literature on online learning among undergraduate students.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

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