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Addressing student 'disconnect' in a connected world: Activating engagement and learning through smart-enabled technology
Conference presentation   Open access

Addressing student 'disconnect' in a connected world: Activating engagement and learning through smart-enabled technology

Nadine McKillop and Natalee Cairns
UniSC Learning and Teaching Showcase Series, 2022 (Sunshine Coast, Australia, 16-Nov-2022)
2022
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LT Showcase PowerPoint Presentation Session 3 Student Disconnect Nov 2022 Final1.50 MBDownloadView
Presentation Open Access

Abstract

This presentation offers reflections, based on student data and experiences, on the use of technology-enabled learning in Australian higher education to activate student learning and engagement. Commencing pre-COVID, the purpose of this study was to investigate students’ (1) perceptions of the utility of smart-enabled technologies for enhancing their engagement, connectedness, learning and academic success and (2) actual engagement with smart-enabled learning materials. Observational and self-report student data (n = 94) and thematic analysis of qualitative responses identified both challenges and affordances useful for redesigning online learning materials during and post-COVID. Findings demonstrate that, if used authentically and meaningfully, smart-enabled technologies provide positive avenues for students to connect with each other, teachers, and content, and receive instant formative feedback. They also break down social barriers to create student dialogue often lost in large classroom environments. This study provides useful insights for planning, building and assessing effectiveness of online learning materials.

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