|
Learning theory (DE0501) is a 3 Cr hour course required for
all diploma and masters students, the module aimed at
providing an overview of the main theories of education and
learning strategies in the context of distance learning, it
also aims to emphasize the importance of the formulation of
the courses aims and objectives. The course used to be
taught at the beginning of the program using a blended
learning approach combining face-to-face sessions, online
learning activities, and mini-discussions. The current paper
aims at assessing the impact of active learning on the
module teaching outcomes. Teaching outcomes under
investigation included academic achievement covering
cognitive sub-domains represented in: knowledge,
comprehension, application, analysis, synthesis and
evaluation (Bloom, 1956), as quantitative components and
satisfaction with learning as a qualitative component. A
developmental research approach was used on a sample
consisted of 26 male and female (10 male and 16 female)
master and diploma students who studying learning theory at
the Arabian Gulf University distance teaching and training
program, their age range from 24 to 45 years i.e. (M= 31.80
and SD=5. 60). The study used 4 instruments for collecting
the needed data students registration records for collecting
subjects` demographic information Honey and Mumford learning
style inventory which administrated at the beginning of the
course was used for assessing subjects` prefer learning
styles, three assignments, and final test in learning theory
was administrated to collect data related to subjects
learning outcomes Bloom (1956), and satisfaction with
learning scale which used for collecting data related to
subjects satisfaction with learning experience and learning
devices. Data analysis reveals that the active learning
approach is very effective for teaching learning theory,
this approach motives participant for learning and leads to
a high degree of satisfaction with the learning experience
and helps them to better grades.
Keywords:
Activity–based learning, learning theory module,
distance teaching and training program, learning outcomes,
stratification with learning and motivation for learning |
