Results of Pilot Study into the Application of MicroLearning in Teaching the Subject Computer Architecture and Operating System Basics

摘要

This study seeks an answer to the question of whether MicroLearning (ML) as another possible developmental shift in e-Leaning is the right way to go, whether it is effective and how it is received by students. The study's authors seek an answer to these questions in this pilot research, which can be perceived as a springboard for further more detailed investigation and options for implementation within the education process. The study provides the results of the pilot ML course applied in the teaching of the subject Computer Architecture and Operating System Basics designed for students in their first year studying at the Department of Information and Communication Technologies at the University of Ostrava's Faculty of Education. This validated course syllabus is based on the original e-learning course, which was transformed into ML format. The described ML course was implemented over a period of one semester. The effectiveness of this course is calculated based on comparing an experimental and a control group of students who have traditional study materials in electronic form. In addition to the results of the research, the authors here give a brief description of the procedure for creating a course and the tools and environment used in creating the course. The study is a preliminary outcome of a two-year investigation looking at the application of ML within the higher education environment in technical and humanities subjects in distance learning and full-time studies.