Development of a problem-based learning model via a virtual learning environment

Abstract The primary objective of this research was the development of a problem-based learning model using a virtual learning environment (VLE) for undergraduate students in the Photography for Communication Arts course. The model supports and enhances students' learning, achievements and problem-solving skills. An efficiency test for the model revealed an above average set of criteria at 80/83.93, which conformed to the research hypothesis. The principles of instructional systems design (ISD) and systems approach were integrated into the design and assessment phases of model development, which resulted in more effective management of relevant instructional courses and materials. Based on its efficiency and potential application to real-life situations, the model has been deemed suitable by experts. The selected student group in the problem-based learning model via VLE achieved higher test scores compared to a group of students in a normal classroom with a statistical significance of .05. Because students learn using models that promote self-awareness and make it possible to choose their own topic of study employing resources provided by VLE, an assessment of their work quality found that they gained more knowledge of information technology as well as access to up-to-date information. Students are able to choose the most comfortable time to study. The model encourages students to learn through participation, practice problem-solving skills on an individual basis, and exchange ideas with other members of a group. The virtual environment involves many forms of media and materials that stimulate students' interest in learning and results in higher satisfaction. The gap in the communication channel between students and teachers is reduced due to easier and more informal communication.

[1]  Caroline Lego Muñoz,et al.  Opening Facebook: How to Use Facebook in the College Classroom , 2009 .

[2]  Danah Boyd,et al.  Social Network Sites: Definition, History, and Scholarship , 2007, J. Comput. Mediat. Commun..

[3]  Matthew Etherington.  Investigative Primary Science: A Problem-based Learning Approach , 2011 .

[4]  D. Newble,et al.  The approaches to learning of students in a traditional and in an innovative problem‐based medical school , 1986, Medical education.

[5]  P. Sri Jothi,et al.  Analysis of social networking sites: A study on effective communication strategy in developing brand communication , 2011 .

[6]  Nee Nee Chan,et al.  An exploration of students' lived experiences of using smartphones in diverse learning contexts using a hermeneutic phenomenological approach , 2015, Comput. Educ..

[7]  Christine Greenhow,et al.  Learning, Teaching, and Scholarship in a Digital Age , 2009 .

[8]  George Siemens.  Connectivism: A Learning Theory for the Digital Age , 2004 .

[9]  J. Dewey.  How we think : a restatement of the relation of reflective thinking to the educative process , 1934 .

[10]  Stefan Hrastinski,et al.  Asynchronous & Synchronous E-Learning , 2008 .

[11]  Mei Liu,et al.  Using the Facebook group as a learning management system: An exploratory study , 2012, Br. J. Educ. Technol..

[12]  C. Hmelo‐Silver.  Problem-Based Learning: What and How Do Students Learn? , 2004 .

[13]  David W. Johnson,et al.  Cooperative Learning Returns To College What Evidence Is There That It Works , 1998 .

[14]  Christine A. Ormond.  Tailoring Mentoring for New Mathematics and Science Teachers: An Exploratory Study , 2011 .

[15]  Haijun Kang,et al.  Infusing work-based learning with Confucian principles: a comparative perspective , 2015 .

[16]  Stefan Hrastinski,et al.  Asynchronous and synchronous e-learning , 2008 .

[17]  Susan M. Land,et al.  Scaffolding students’ problem-solving processes in an ill-structured task using question prompts and peer interactions , 2003 .

[18]  Richard L. Daft,et al.  Organizational information requirements, media richness and structural design , 1986 .

[19]  Sofie M. M. Loyens,et al.  Problem-Based Learning , 2019, Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Education.

[20]  Namsoo Shin,et al.  Predictors of well-structured and ill-structured problem solving in an astronomy simulation , 2003 .

[21]  Yvonne Nalani Meulemans,et al.  The Problems and Potential of MySpace and Facebook Usage in Academic Libraries , 2008 .