Learner variables, tool-usage behaviour and performance in an open learning environment

An in-depth understanding of the interaction between students and open learning environments (e.g., tool-usage behaviour) is essential for the design of such learning environments. As insight in tool use becomes of particular interest with the use of open learning environments, the current study investigates how the variation in the quantitative aspect of tool use is related to prior knowledge and goal orientation and how this variation affects performance. Tool-use data were extracted from log file data collected in an open-ended learning environment. Results revealed the hypothesized relationships between tool-usage behaviour (the proportion of time spent on tools) and performance. In order to have a more thorough understanding of the relationships between learner variables, tool-usage behaviour and learning outcomes, log-file data may need to be complemented with direct observations to acknowledge the qualitative aspects of the tool-usage behaviour (i.e., mixed method approach). © 2008 Springer Netherlands.

ISBN:978-1-4020-8826-1

Jaar van publicatie:2008

Toegankelijkheid:Closed