Subtheme: Technology & Innovation
Design, Development and Impact of Online Learning
KLCC, 28 November: This session shares the studies conducted on online learning and focuses on design of online and blended learning based on user feedback and satisfaction.
Assoc Prof Dr Moiz Uddin Ahmed Siddiqui of Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Pakistan, shared his findings on the implementation of hybrid e-learning model that is inexpensive, flexible and provides increased outreach using information communication technology. An important outcome of the research was that the model helped to enhance the quality of e-learning.
Dr Elizabeth Mwaniki’s research on higher education in Kenya found that online programmes offered by institutions of higher learning lacked interactivity which did little to foster learners with 21st century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration and global awareness.
Dr Mwaniki of Kenyatta University said her university had initiated capacity building workshops for academics to brush up their skills and apply their knowledge on ICT in teaching and learning.
Zulaika Zakariah of Open University Malaysia (OUM) found that learners were generally motivated to take up online courses as they have the freedom to pace their learning and study at their own time. The only setback was the lack of physical contact with peers and lecturers, which at times, could be overwhelming.
Dr Shahid Hussain of AIOU, Pakistan, discussed the emerging trend among distance learners in Pakistan, with the majority of them being heavy users of the Internet. The study, however, found that students’ exposure to the Internet has no negative effect on their social interaction.
Another AIOU presenter, Mr Kamran Nir, co-authored a paper with Prof Dr Nazir Sangi and Dr Ali Tahir on the importance of using analytics to improve learner-centred application design. Their study focused on the use of analytics in developing key parameters in designing online learning applications. It was found that using these parameters, existing design of software applications can be improved to make them more personalised and learner-centred.