The Lost Generation in E-Learning: Deep and Surface Approaches to Online Learning

This study examined the independent effects of six approaches to learning in online computer conferencing: (1) deep learning: (2) comprehension learning; (3) relating ideas; (4) surface learning; (5) syllabus boundness; and (6) achievement motivation. Deep learning, comprehension learning, and relating ideas were combined into a more general index called "meaning orientation" or "deep approach to learning." Syllabus boundness and surface learning were combined into a reproducing orientation index, a surface approach to learning. Online surveys were conducted in 3 school years at a Canadian university using the FirstClass proprietary software, which had been customized into an online conferencing system. The questionnaire was completed by 114, 280, and 679 students in the 3 years. Factor indexes were created of approaches to learning, active use of online conferencing, the subjective valuation of its personal importance to students, and embarrassment or anxieties over posting messages to online course conferences. Seven hypotheses were developed, the main one being that a deep approach to learning would result in greater use and personal importance of registered than unregistered course conferences. Only partial support was found for the hypotheses. The deep approach to learning resulted in a heightened active use of almost all aspects of online conferencing, increased reading and sending of messages, a greater subjective valuation by learners of the importance of participation in conferencing and nonacademic social debates, and a reduction in anxiety about postings. About 15% to 25% of the samples formed a "lost generation" in the elearning world. These students scored high on a surface approach to learning and low on a deep approach. Implications for educators who want to reach these students are discussed. (Contains 32 tables and 45 references.) (SLD) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document. The Lost Generation in E-Learning: Deep and Surface Approaches to Online Learning Carl J. Cuneo), Delsworth Harnish2 831.d Annual Meeting of the American Education Research Association Division C: Investigations of online learning environments New Orleans April 2nd, 2002 Dr. Carl Cuneo, Professor, Sociology Director, EvNet, Network for the Evaluation of Education and Training Technologies http://evnetcanada.org/ Email: Carl.CuneoRLearnLink.mcmaster.ca KTH 608, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8S 4M4 Ph. 011 (905) 525-9140, ext. 23602; Fax: 011 (905) 628-3545 2 Dr. Delsworth Harnish Professor and Assistant Dean Bachelor of Health Sciences Health Sciences Centre Room 1J11 1280 Main Street West Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3Z5 E-mail: harnishd@mcmaster.ca http://www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/bhsc/ 1

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