Content-Based VLE Designs Improve Learning Efficiency in Constructivist Statistics Education
2011

Improving Learning Efficiency with Content-Based Virtual Learning Environments

Sample size: 240 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Wessa Patrick, De Rycker Antoon, Holliday Ian Edward

Primary Institution: Leuven Institute for Research on Information Systems, University of Leuven

Hypothesis

Does a content-centered VLE design improve learning efficiency compared to a traditional course-centered design?

Conclusion

The study found that a content-based VLE design significantly increased learning efficiency for students.

Supporting Evidence

  • The content-based design outperformed the traditional VLE design in terms of learning efficiency.
  • Students using the new design submitted fewer feedback messages yet performed better.
  • Gender differences in performance were eliminated with the new VLE design.
  • Peer review activity was the best predictor of exam performance.
  • Students reported higher satisfaction with the content-centered VLE.

Takeaway

This study shows that changing the way online learning environments are designed can help students learn better and faster.

Methodology

A two-year quasi-experiment was conducted comparing two VLE designs in an undergraduate statistics course.

Potential Biases

Potential biases related to the non-random selection of participants were addressed through careful design.

Limitations

The findings may not generalize beyond the specific context of the undergraduate statistics course studied.

Participant Demographics

Participants were undergraduate business students from two cohorts over two years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0025363

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