Using log variables in a learning management system to evaluate learning activity using the lens of activity theory

As the advance of learning technologies and analytics tools continues, learning management systems (LMSs) have been required to fulfil the growing expectations for smart learning. However, the reality regarding the level of technology integration in higher education differs considerably from such expectations or the speed of advances in educational technologies. This research aimed to evaluate the current activation levels and usage patterns of a LMS. A large data-set was analysed, which included the online activity information from 7940 courses. Through data pre-processing, general indicators reflecting login frequencies of the virtual campus and activity-based indicators presenting the activation patterns of diverse functions provided by Moodle were derived. Activity theory was applied to interpret the results of analysis, since it has been recognised as a powerful framework to understand phenomena encompassing interactive systems. Further, time-series investigation over three consecutive semesters allowed observation of historical changes. The results revealed considerably low use of the virtual campus with only slight changes, as well as significantly different activity patterns across course attributes and colleges. Contradictions among components in the activity system are discussed, along with the implications for improving teaching and learning with LMS in higher education.     

The Role of Anatomy Computer-Assisted Learning on Spatial Abilities of Medical Students

Currently, medical education context poses different challenges to anatomy, contributing to the introduction of new pedagogical approaches, such as computer-assisted learning (CAL). This approach provides insight into students' learning profiles and skills that enhance anatomy knowledge acquisition. To understand the influence of anatomy CAL on spatial abilities, a study was conducted. A total of 671 medical students attending Musculoskeletal (MA) and Cardiovascular Anatomy (CA) courses, were allocated to one of three groups (MA Group, CA Group, MA + CA Group). Students' pre-training and post-training spatial abilities were assessed through Mental Rotations Test (MRT), with scores ranging between 0-24. After CAL training sessions, students' spatial abilities performance improved (9.72 ± 4.79 vs. 17.05 ± 4.57, P < 0.001). Although male students in both MA Group and CA Group show better baseline spatial abilities, no sex differences were found after CAL training. The improvement in spatial abilities score between sessions (Delta MRT) was correlated with Musculoskeletal Anatomy training sessions in MA Group (r = 0.333, P < 0.001) and MA + CA Group (r = 0.342, P < 0.001), and with Cardiovascular Anatomy training sessions in CA Group (r = 0.461, P = 0.001) and MA + CA Group (r = 0.324, P = 0.001). Multiple linear regression models were used, considering the Delta MRT as dependent variable. An association of Delta MRT to the amount of CAL training and the baseline spatial abilities was observed. The results suggest that CAL training in anatomy has positive dose-dependent effect on spatial abilities.     

The articulation of the development of teacher knowledge during the implementation of new teaching procedures to enhance student understanding of molecular biological concepts

This paper is based on the first author’s extensive examination of her teaching and her students’ learning in a senior high school Biology classroom at a coeducational K-12 independent college in Victoria, Australia, over a five-year period. Research was guided by the following questions: (1) How can students become more aware of the specific biological terminology that they will need to use to communicate their understanding of biological concepts? (2) How can student familiarity with new biological terminology be enhanced? (3) Which teaching strategies might be most effective across the diverse range of abilities and learning styles within a senior Biology classroom? Three key data-sets ([1] Development of specific teaching procedures; [2] Student responses to using the teaching procedures; [3] Teacher journal entries and reflections) were analysed supported by Korthagen’s ALACT model. Findings support the notion that genuine educational change is linked to teacher change, driven by teachers themselves, drawing new insights into students’ learning.     

培养学习者英语自主学习能力的对策

大学英语教学中传统的以老师为中心的教学模式已被证明不利于培养和提高学生的语言技能.因此,在以语言运用能力和终生学习能力的培养为轴心的教学改革中,自主学习的概念又重新引起了教育者的关注.本文针对抑制学生语言自主学习能力的相关因素,探讨涉及过程性教学,过程性评估和学习情感因素的一系列有助于提高学习者语言自主学习能力的策略.     

诗关乎“才”更关乎“学”

诗歌创作决定的因素是“才”还是“学” ,古往今来有许多不同的争论。其实“学”与“才”是不同侧面互为作用的一个合体。首先是“才”的“大小”“奇”“犭益”离不开学。人在学与力索的过程中劳逸深浅不同 ,体现心智的灵明程度也不同。人在与外物沟通时有“耳听”、“心听”、“神听”的不同层次。所以体现在诗的境界上也有或“执情强物” ,或“超越其形” ,或“神凝形废”的不同境界。另者 ,“才”对艺术成败又起决定作用。诗人只有在怦然所动 ,灵性将至的情况下 ,才可生情 ,情可生文。总之 ,诗产生于性灵 ,博学又要以培养触激性灵。更重要的是诗以识为主 ,“非识则才学俱误”。     

移动学习呼唤优质的远程教育课程资源研发

在我国构建全民学习、终身学习的学习型社会背景下,远程教育为由于种种原因不能接受传统面授教育的人们,提供一种灵活的高质量的教育机会,也使接受高等教育不再是少数人享有的权利,为大众的终身学习提供了可能。随着信息技术的迅猛发展,智能移动设备使得人人、处处、时时学习成为现实。要提升移动学习的效果,提高远程教育的质量,亟需研发优质的远程教育课程资源。课程资源的研发,要紧随现代信息技术的步伐,充分考虑成人学习的特点,打造课程研发团队,更好地适应学习者的阅读习惯,引起阅读兴趣。     

高校图书馆新生培训效果调查及培训模式创新——以中山大学东校区图书馆为例

采用问卷调查法对中山大学东校区图书馆新生培训效果进行调查,发现其中存在有限的培训时间与不断增长的培训内容之间的矛盾、不断增长的新生人数与有限的培训资源之间的矛盾、培训针对性不强等问题亟待解决。在图书馆现有培训资源的基础上,提出新生培训前开展自学自测、采用体验式学习模式和针对性电子资源现场操作演示相结合的新型培训模式,将传统新生培训与网络技术紧密结合在一起,适应新形势下新生培训工作的需求。     

Reflective peer coaching: Crafting collaborative self-assessment in teaching

Reflective peer coaching is a formative model for improving teaching and learning by examining intentions prior to teaching, then reflecting upon the experience. The goal of reflective peer coaching is to promote self-assessment and collaboration for better teaching and ultimately better learning. There are obvious benefits to colleagues collaborating and sharing ideas, thoughts, and observations. However, many models of assessing teaching effectiveness focus on summative evaluation in which colleagues observe each other once or twice a year and fill out institutional evaluation forms. Rarely do colleagues engage in formative conversations about teaching that are guided by the instructor's personal goals and objectives. Reflective peer coaching necessitates a ten-minute planning conversation prior to the actual lesson and a ten-minute reflective conversation after the lesson. These conversations happen regularly and frequently to build self-awareness and self-assessment of the personal craft of teaching. The following article outlines the dynamics of the reflective peer coaching process as a formative assessment model that leads to better learning through improved teaching.     

一个概率模型的应用

本文以研究性学习的方式对一个概率问题进行引申和推广,体现了研究性学习的探究性和应用性的特点,突出了分房问题这一概率模型应用的广泛性。     

高校体育教育目的与体育价值观的培养

体育教育在培养全面发展的人的能力方面有其独特的作用，学生在体育 行为过程中的价值观的培养应结合这一目的，满足其生物改造、心理和社会的需要，排除个人价值认知的干扰，实现教育的最终目的。