Analysing the efficacy of blended learning using Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) and m-learning delivery technologies

Kevin Johnson, Cathal McHugo, Timothy Hall
Educational Media Research Centre, Electronic and Computer Engineering Department
University of Limerick

The developing ubiquitous nature of information communication technology (ICT) offers opportunities and benefits in the educational field when blended with more traditional approaches to learning and teaching, they include: monitoring of on-line activity, rich administrative support, repository of learning materials, multiplicity of assessment options and strong collaborative tools. Additionally, it is common for third level students to have excellent internet access on campus, in university residences, and at home. This technological strength coupled with the high level of ICT literacy of today’s student makes blended learning an attractive option. In order to obtain maximum benefit from such a blended approach students must log-on to the learning environment regularly to see new information and maintain their collaboration, a discipline they do not easily adopt. Two ways of encouraging such engagement, the first of which is tested in this paper, are technology enhanced learning notification methods and m-learning announcement means. The TEL notification method is discussed and tested through a student survey (COLLES) to determine the students’ perception and preference.

Keywords: learning environment, blended learning, m-learning, technology enhanced learning, COLLES, learning management system.