The perspective of the online student: Emerging technologies that warrant use in online learning at a community college

摘要

The influx of new technologies, coupled with the learning needs and expectations of Net Generation students, has faculty uncertain as to which emerging technologies to integrate in the online learning environment. The objective of this study was to ameliorate knowledge and present realistic information and guidance to online faculty for the progression of assimilating relevant online technologies to enhance online learning from the viewpoint of the students. Technologies emerging in the years 2005 through 2009 were explored. The researcher emphasized the technologies (a) lecture capture; (b) podcasting; (c) social networking; (d) vodcasting; and (e) real-time virtual classrooms as potential technologies that students perceive warrant use in an online environment to enhance learning. The researcher used a mixed methodology and an exploratory, evaluative research design to address the research questions. A literature review was conducted and a Web questionnaire was used to collect data from online business and computer students at a community college in the southwest United States. Data was analyzed using content and conceptual analysis and presented in statistical and textual formats. The findings implied that students had limited usage, proficiency, and familiarity using many of the emerging technologies presented in this research study. Lecture capture was the technology students' perceive warrant use in online learning; nearly all students confirmed that emerging technologies, if integrated appropriately in online classes, would enhance learning.