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ONline-learning must synch or sink, researcher says

A University of Alberta researcher found that online undergraduate classes using text-based formats lack reflective engagement and facilitate communication lacking in joy, passion, flavour and urgency. Kanuka recommends integrating audio-visual technologies to better support students and create a more engaging community of learners.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Computing in Higher Education·DateJan 27, 2012

Language learning through hip-hop music

A study published in PLOS ONE found that participants who listened to more hip-hop artists had better knowledge of non-mainstream words and phrases used in the genre. Additionally, knowing the artists used in songs enhanced vocabulary understanding. These findings suggest a novel aspect of language learning among adolescents.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 21, 2011

Online nutrition courses: Fad or growing trend?

A new study in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior found that online nutrition education courses can be effective, with students able to gain knowledge and achieve learning outcomes similar to face-to-face learners. However, the study also identified areas for improvement, including the need for more engaging and interactiv...

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalJournal of Nutrition Education and Behavior·DateMar 8, 2011

WSU researcher designs multilingual instruction materials for world's largest mall

A WSU researcher designed an instructional process to train over 300 employees from diverse countries in custodial duties at the Dubai Mall. The project resulted in a high success rate and has been recognized as a model for efficient, cross-cultural instructional design.

SourceWayne State University - Office of the Vice President for Research·JournalInternational Journal of Designs for Learning·DateFeb 10, 2011

Vertical search across the educational horizon

Researchers have developed a new approach to searching online educational resources, enabling users to access specific prospectuses, curricula and tests easily. The approach uses focused crawling, web content classification and information extraction to pull out relevant information from the web.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Computational Science and Engineering·DateDec 22, 2010

Rushing too fast to online learning?

A new study by Northwestern University researchers suggests that online classes may have negative consequences for lower-performing and language minority students. The study found modest evidence that live-only instruction results in higher learning outcomes than internet instruction, particularly for relatively low-achieving students.

T cell protein boosts learning

A recent study discovered that a protein produced by T cells reduces inflammatory proteins hindering learning, improving navigation in mice trained to find their way through a water maze. Mice lacking this protein suffered from learning disabilities, which could be reversed with IL-4–producing T cells.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Experimental Medicine·DateMay 3, 2010

Useless online student quizzes

A study published in Int. J. Information and Operations Management Education found that online quizzes are not effective in improving student learning. Despite educators' hopes, the study revealed no significant difference in grades between courses with and without online quizzes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Information and Operations Management Education·DateJan 20, 2010

The skinny on 'Lean' education

A report from Texas A&M University suggests that Lean thinking can transform adult education by adapting traditional methods to provide learners with personalized, cost-effective learning experiences. Key principles include cellular processes, policy deployment, flow, and standardization.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Human Resources Development and Management·DateSep 28, 2009

Online educational empowerment

Research suggests that online educational empowerment enables learners to acquire knowledge efficiently through social networks. However, individual self-governance is key to success in these communities. The study explores how personal factors like goals, communication skills, and IT skills affect learning outcomes.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Web Based Communities·DateMay 22, 2009

MU researcher studies effectiveness of traditional and blended learning environments

A MU researcher found that while traditional and blended learning environments have few statistical differences in effectiveness, students in hybrid classrooms are more frequently confused about course requirements. The study suggests that motivation and technological ability play a major role in success in blended environments.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of allied health sciences·DateSep 22, 2008

Chalk and talk

Researchers provide a template for online education that addresses obstacles to integrating traditional chalk and talk classes with digital tools. The template builds on principles suggested in 2005 for developing Asynchronous Learning Environments (ALEs) and outlines materials and tools for delivery, coursework, and assessment.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Management in Education·DateJul 17, 2008

Benefits of online interaction for teens outweigh danger, professor says

A University of Illinois professor argues that the educational and psychosocial benefits of online communication for teenagers far outweigh potential dangers. Online discussions enable critical thinking, argumentation, and support from peer groups, while also providing a safe space to explore identity and sensitive issues.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalJournal of Adolescent Research·DateNov 6, 2007

Don't just save her life, save her fertility

The Oncofertility Consortium seeks to alter the medical world's approach to female cancer patients, promoting a new consciousness to protect their reproductive health. Researchers will investigate fertility threats posed by cancer treatment and develop strategies to improve communication with newly diagnosed patients.

Learning a sense of community online

Researchers found that online learning communities like Think.com can promote children's learning by encouraging active engagement, digital literacy, and social skills. The teams assess how such systems support students in creating knowledge products and building a sense of identity and audience within the community.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Web Based Communities·DateJun 19, 2007

Ugandan adolescents want online AIDS education

A study found that one-third of Ugandan adolescents use the internet for health-related information, while another third would go online to learn about HIV/AIDS if it were free. The findings suggest initiatives improving online access and tailored content for young people could make a difference in Africa.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateNov 6, 2006