Transcript Thelen_TCC.ppt

Absenteeism and the Use of
Online Learning Modules
Action Research Study for Middle School Students
Lisa Thelen
University of Hawaii at Manoa
[email protected]
Problem
• Student absences cause a disruption to
learning
• Loss of valuable instruction time
Background
Learning methods
• Absenteeism is increasing at an alarming rate.
• Studies show direct correlation between
absences and academic performance
• Changes in educational delivery methods
• Increased computer accessibility and usage
• Data shows no difference in student
performance in online and traditional settings
• Concerns with quality of instruction
• Magnified in younger grades
Research directed Question
How prepared are middle
school students to receive
instructional materials in an
online format?
Target Audience
• 24 Middle School Students
– Focus on 6 students identified with 504 status
• Enrolled in Career and Business Technology Course
• 67% receive assistance for lunch and bus
• 75% Asian/Pacific Islanders
• 72% Internet Connection
Methods
• Data collection via online surveys
•Demographic
•Level of Experience
•Post
Methods (continued)
• Moodle
Implementation
Number of Students
Weekly Computer Use
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
Boys
Girls
<2
2 to 5
6 to 9
Hours Per Week
10+
Module Design
• Design of module followed Gagne’s Nine Events
of Instruction
• Four sections (one revised)
• Variety of delivery methods
• Reflections posted on classroom blog
• Skills/Interest inventories
Results
• Five folders revised to seven
• 92% comfortable editing/formatting Microsoft
Word docs
• 89% comfortable posting blog
Results (cont)
Results
• Online collaboration a challenge
• 32% felt comfortable working on group project
online
Results
• Learning curve for using Web 2.0 tools
• Overwhelmed with process of using tools
• Preferred receiving assignments in Voicethread
format
Discussion
• Excessive absences continue to be an issue
• Use of online modules viable solution
• More formal training necessary for students
DISCUSSION
•Intrigued by the opportunity to learn
•Combination of synchronous and
asynchronous most effective
•Offering variety of options for getting
instructions
•Need additional prep with computers
•Not spatially mature enough
Thank you!
Good Evening… Any Questions???