International Journal of Learning Technology (29 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• SATISFACTION OF STUDENTS AND TEACHERS WITH BLENDED LEARNING DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC: AN ALGERIAN CASE STUDY  
  by Meriem Laifa, Samir Akhrouf, Djamila Mohdeb, Mouhoub Belazzoug 
  Abstract: The conversation on the effectiveness of blended learning experience in Algerian higher education has not received the necessary attention compared to developed countries. Moreover, there is a scarcity of research that discusses the impact and benefits of the pandemic-induced changes in Algerian higher education. The primary goal of this paper is to initiate a deeper conversation about blended learning in Algerian Higher Education using an exploratory research method based on empirical evidence and quantitative data. It examines teachers and students satisfaction with blended teaching and learning at Algerian universities since the start of Covid-19. There was a total of 782 students and 82 teachers involved with valid questionnaire responses, from two different Algerian public universities. The data were examined using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, such as independent t-test, Mann-Whitney U-test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and one-way ANOVA. The results indicate low satisfaction with blended learning on both sides: students and teachers. Furthermore, the data do not suggest differences in satisfaction between teachers and students, either in terms of the program taught or the university to which they belong. However, there were significant differences among students based on their age and their level of study. The paper also discusses the values, benefits, and restrictions of the mandatory blended learning approach applied by the Algerian ministry since March 2020. Implications and recommendations for both practitioners and researchers are additionally addressed in this study to make informed pedagogical choices in the future.
  Keywords: Blended Learning; Blended Teaching; Information and Communication Technologies; Higher Education; Emergency Learning; Distance Education; COVID-19; University; Education.
  
  
• Effectiveness of E-Learning in Higher Education  
  by José Fernández Cerero, Marta Montenegro Rueda 
  Abstract: Geography education usually faces the problem of a monotonous learning process. Therefore, educators constantly seek better teaching strategies to present interesting and enjoyable classes. The main objective of this study is to present learning technology to improve geoheritage understanding through an open-access website powered by interactive virtual reality. This is research and development, adopted the Plomp development model. Data collection used a validation test on the material, media experts, and trials on 20 students and a geography teacher. The results of the validation and trials, interactive virtual reality media can be declared feasible for learning digital geography in schools. This media can increase students motivation, curiosity, and in-depth experience in studying the process of rock formation and lithosphere dynamics in the Ijen Geopark area.
  Keywords: electronic learning; higher education; information and communication technologies; systematic review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10057635
   
  
• Developing Interactive Virtual Reality as a Tech-Based Learning Media to Improve Students' Geoheritage Comprehension  
  by Robby Hilmi Rachmadian, Alfyananda Putra, Sumarmi Sumarmi, Heni Masruroh 
  Abstract: Geography education usually faces the problem of a monotonous learning process. Therefore, educators constantly seek better teaching strategies to present interesting and enjoyable classes. The main objective of this study is to present learning technology to improve geoheritage understanding through an open-access website powered by interactive virtual reality. This is research and development, adopted the Plomp development model. Data collection used a validation test on the material, media experts, and trials on 20 students and a geography teacher. The results of the validation and trials, interactive virtual reality media can be declared feasible for learning digital geography in schools. This media can increase students motivation, curiosity, and in-depth experience in studying the process of rock formation and lithosphere dynamics in the Ijen Geopark area.
  Keywords: interactive virtual reality; IVR; learning technology environments; geoheritage understanding; geography digital learning media; Ijen Geopark.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10057649
   
  
• A novel recommendation of learning items based on deep neural networks and trust relationships  
  by Yamina Aissaoui, Lamia Berkani, Faical Azouaou 
  Abstract: With the rapid development of information technologies, online learning platforms have become the most convenient way for users(teachers and learners) to share their learning content. However, due to the increasing number of educational content, it becomes very difficult for learners to find the most appropriate items. Most previous methods focused on users' ratings to establish learners' profiles, while recent work has added users' comments. In this work we are interested on the usage of social learning networks and we propose a novel learning items recommendation approach through sentiment analysis. Two different deep neural network models (DNNs) have been used, namely: bidirectional encoder representations from transformers (BERT) and recurrent neural networks (RNNs) with their modified version, long short-term memory (LSTM). These models are based on the learners' data, including their favourite content and comments. To support learners in selecting learning resources, a list of trusted learners was developed using similarity between learners. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of our proposal, experiments have been conducted on two different datasets. The results we have obtained demonstrated that our approach outperforms the baselines and related work.
  Keywords: social learning networks; social recommender system; trust; sentiment analysis; deep neural models; BERT; recurrent neural network; RNN; long short-term memory; LSTM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10058112
   
  
• Effective web technologies integration in e-learning 3.0 courses aiming at smart learning  
  by Vasiliki Karampa, Foteini Paraskeva 
  Abstract: In parallel to web evolution from 1.0 to 4.0 with trends to 5.0, e-learning has evolved to smart learning (SmL). E-courses are pedagogically designed and implemented using web technologies to provide smart learning affordances (SLAs). By following research-based design methodology, this study investigates the effectiveness of web technologies integration into a meaningful e-learning 3.0 environment, aiming at SmL. An e-course was pedagogically designed, implemented by integrating 35 web technologies, and evaluated by three independent e-learning experts using the technology integration matrix (TIM) framework, oriented towards meaningful learning (ML). Results showed that such integration enhances the effectiveness of the delivered e-course. The e-learning environment proved authentic, at least active, constructive, and goal-directed (GD), yielding corresponding SLAs; however, it failed to prove collaboration due to most web technologies limited collaborative opportunities provided. Additionally, fifteen Web technologies were prominent. Findings provide guidelines for web technologies integration and insights for future work.
  Keywords: web technologies; e-learning 3.0; smart learning affordances; SLAs; meaningful learning; ML; technology integration matrix; TIM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10058678
   
  
• Evaluation of Web Accessibility of an LMS Platform: A Portuguese University Case  
  by Sara S. Vilarinho, Dora Simões, João Batista 
  Abstract: In recent years, virtual teaching and training environments, namely Learning Management Systems (LMS), have been increasingly used to monitor learning and to provide learning materials to students. This investigation evaluates the accessibility of the LMS platform used in a Portuguese university, using web accessibility validation tools, an evaluation made by accessibility specialists, and a focus group with students. This assessment considers the principles of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and Universal Design (UD) principles to identify platform accessibility errors. The results indicate that the LMS still has many basic-level accessibility errors. The errors are described and systematised and some suggestions for correcting them are presented. Finally, some perspectives for future research are proposed.
  Keywords: Web Accessibility; E-Learning; Inclusion; Learning Management System; LMS; LMS Accessibility Evaluation; Web Content Accessibility Guidelines; WCAG; Universal Design; Universal Design in LMS.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10058986
   
  
• Students' E-Learning Satisfaction During the Pandemic: A Turkish Public University Example  
  by Mohammad Naserinia, Aykut Hamit Turan 
  Abstract: E-learning as a unique technology provides distance learning for users. With the outbreak of the COVID-19 era, this educational system attracted more attention than ever before. The main purpose of this study is to measure the success of Sakarya University in gaining students satisfaction with its own e-learning system. For this purpose, an online questionnaire was distributed among undergraduate students. 400 questionnaires were collected, of which 378 were retained for analysis. In the presented model, total of six variables were examined to evaluate and measure the satisfaction of students regarding e-learning. In this study, we found that the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in the e-learning system has a positive effect on user satisfaction. Therefore, not only educational centres should pay attention to the quality of infrastructure of the e-learning system, but also these institutions must try to encourage users to use e-learning technology and increase user satisfaction from current level.
  Keywords: e-learning; e-learning satisfaction; perceived user satisfaction; COVID-19; technology acceptance model; TAM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10060323
   
  
• Charting the Trajectory of Digital Literacy Research: A Review of Research Topics, Publication Venues, and Top Cited Papers  
  by Heena Choudhary, Nidhi Bansal 
  Abstract: This study employs bibliometric analysis delves into a multifaceted analysis, identifying influential journals, authors, countries, and articles in the realm of digital literacy. It embarks on a content analysis of top-cited papers to unveil prevalent themes in literature. The outcome is a robust conceptual framework that offers a holistic grasp of DL. Results highlight a consistent rhythm of publications in this field, pinpointing Lukasz Tomczyk as the most prolific author, Universitetet i Oslo, Norway as the most productive institution, Computers and Education Journal as the most-cited publication outlet, and North America as the most productive region. Content analysis of top-cited papers unearths dominant themes, ranging from DL conceptualisation, antecedents, measurement, training, to its impact and associated challenges. While this study is based on journal studies from the Scopus database, its implications reverberate far and wide. Academics can fine-tune research agendas and policymakers can craft effective strategies for fostering digital inclusion.
  Keywords: digital literacy; bibliometric; content analysis; review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10060691
   
  
• Examining Gender and Urban-Rural Divide in Digital Competence among University Students  
  by Kamal Ahmed Soomro, Mahnoor Ansari, Imdad Ali Bughio, Nasrullah Nasrullah 
  Abstract: Digital competence is now considered the most vital skill to thrive in today’s information age. This study aimed to examine the gender and urban-rural divide in the digital competence of university students. We surveyed 241 undergraduate and graduate students in the universities of Sindh, Pakistan. The findings showed that there was no significant difference in the participants' digital competence with respect to their gender. However, significant differences were found in the digital competence between the students of urban-located and rural-located universities. Additionally, results suggested that the participants' digital competence did not differ at the three levels of digital skills namely operational, informational, and strategic skills. The findings have implications for the researchers and policymakers regarding equipping university students with digital competence.
  Keywords: digital competence; gender; ICT skills; university students; urban-rural divide.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10060929
   
  
• Analysis of Ghanaian Colleges of Education lecturers' ICT adoption using structural equation modelling  
  by Marien Graham, Ugorji I. Ogbonnaya, Emmanuel K. Boateng 
  Abstract: Understanding the acceptance of information and communication technology (ICT) is vital for effective educational practices. The technology acceptance model (TAM) is a prominent scientific framework for understanding technology acceptance. This study examines how Ghanaian lecturers' intentions to incorporate ICTs in T&L are affected by their beliefs and attitudes using the TAM as theoretical framework. Objectives include establishing how external variables and TAM constructs affect ICT usage. This paper covers the quantitative component of a mixed-methods, pragmatist investigation. The reliability and validity of the TAM were established using Cronbach's alpha and construct validity. Four out of ten hypotheses were confirmed, demonstrating significant effects: gender on perceived ease of use (PEU), PEU on perceived usefulness (PU), attitude towards use (AU) on behavioural intention to use (BIU), BIU on actual use. Based on the results, it is recommended that those who train lecturers in ICT integration emphasise the significant external variables and constructs.
  Keywords: College of Education; Ghana; information and communication technology; ICT; structural equation modelling; SEM; technology acceptance model; TAM; technology integration.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10060930
   
  
• Implementation of Educational Gamification in Blended Learning Environment: Experiments of Field from Multi-Trial in Medical Sciences Groups  
  by Mohsen Keshavarz, Leili Mosalanejad 
  Abstract: Using educational games is one of the fun and effective teaching methods. The purpose of this research is to design and implement an educational gamification program in the form of blended learning models and also, evaluate it in students' learning environments and accept it from students' points of view in multi-trial groups. This research is semi-experimental in multiple groups and disciplines. The educational game was designed with the topic of addiction and was implemented in the form of blended learning models, in three groups for four years between 20192022. The results showed that after educational intervention, the mean score of most of the items was higher than the total average. In addition, studying and understanding concepts, supporting students in exams, creating motivation in learning, and success in lessons had the greatest impact on students learning. The results of game acceptance in educational games were higher than average in all dimensions.
  Keywords: active learning; game-based learning; medical science education; blended learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10061489
   
  
• Citizen science co-constructed educational practices: a teacher training course  
  by Manuel Santos, Vania Carlos, António Moreira 
  Abstract: This paper presents the design of citizen science learning materials, emphasising the co-construction of knowledge. Using a design-based research methodology, we aimed to develop citizen science strategies that foster students' participatory citizenship. The study involved a teacher co-creation training course supported by a smart educational community and a network of community stakeholders, before and during the COVID-19 lockdown, in a secondary school of Aveiro, Portugal. A detailed description of the training course and its implementation is provided. Data collected by two surveys and a teacher self-awareness reflection is presented and discussed. During the study students did data gathering tasks, overcoming the formal/informal divide in learning, using participatory citizenship strategies, and learning guidelines. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of the co-construction process in developing citizen science learning materials, fostering citizenship engagement and collective awareness, creating a range of learning opportunities for students connected to their local context and promoting active citizenship.
  Keywords: learning guidelines; citizen science; teacher professional development; civic co-creation; participatory data collection; citizenship engagement; collective awareness; COVID-19.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10061622
   
  
• Dynamic and Collaborative learning environments: their effect on Academic Performance and Students' Motivation  
  by Kanika Kanika, Neha Dutta, Krishan Dutt, Roop Lal, Prashant Ahlawat 
  Abstract: Teaching students in collaborative learning environments is a well-acknowledged pedagogical practice with numerous benefits. The paper presents the impact of a blend of dynamic and collaborative environments on students' academic performance and motivation in an engineering course. While the classroom environment is made collaborative using an automated grouping tool, the dynamic environment with immense possibilities for learning is also utilised to improve learning through visual cues. The study uses a quasi-experimental design where 253 students studying engineering were divided into four different groups. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the results indicate that the approach generates significant differences in learning by influencing the academic performance and motivation of students positively. The results suggest that while using the dynamic environment improved learning outcomes significantly, using the collaborative learning function alone did not create a difference in factors affecting learning. It is noteworthy that merging the dynamic and collaborative environment also leads to significant improvements in academic performance.
  Keywords: collaborative learning; improving classroom teaching; lifelong learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10061825
   
  
• A Systematic Review of the Use of Immersive Technologies in Young Children's Education  
  by Ridvan Ata, Kasim Yildirim 
  Abstract: Few studies have been conducted on the current state of immersive technologies in early childhood education despite the increase in scholarly attention paid to them. This paper identifies the focus and tendencies in the usage of immersive technologies, research contexts, sample sizes, methodological designs, immersive types, interventions, and benefits of such technologies in early childhood education. The results indicate that current focuses and topics are reading concentration and interest, story comprehension, understanding of visual shapes, motivation, interaction, attitude, attention, spatial skills, and cognitive attainment. In addition, the research designs and techniques included quantitative research methods and data were collected through pretests-posttests, performance, and recall tests. Besides, most research contexts are classroom settings and the most used immersion type is augmented reality while virtual reality is used at the rate of one in third less. Lastly, interventions are AR apps, picture books, games, VR environments, VR analogies, and manipulatives while benefits are mostly positive cognitive, affective, and behavioural outcomes.
  Keywords: immersive technology; augmented reality; virtual reality; early childhood; systematic review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10061836
   
  
• A multi-criteria course recommendation system based on the Skyline BNL and Top-Kws algorithms  
  by Aicha ER-RAFYG, Abdellah IDRISSI, Kaoutar E.L. HANDRI 
  Abstract: In today's digital age, online courses have become a valuable tool for learners to acquire new skills and knowledge. The global outbreak of COVID-19 has further accelerated the adoption of online learning as education service providers are forced to move their courses online to ensure the continuity of education. However, with many online courses, learners often find it challenging to select courses that meet their preferences and requirements. To address this issue, recommender systems (RS) have emerged as a popular solution for automatically analysing data and providing personalised recommendations to learners. Our previous work proposed a course RS based on the skyline block-nested-loops (BNL) algorithm. This algorithm filters courses based on multiple criteria, such as course duration, price, difficulty level, and rating, allowing learners to select courses that meet their specific preferences. However, the skyline BNL algorithm has limitations when learners must consider several criteria simultaneously. This limitation led us to propose a new RS that combines skyline BNL and top-k weighted sum (top-kws). The top-kws algorithm ranks courses based on a weighted sum of their features, allowing learners to select courses based on their relative importance.
  Keywords: multi-criteria recommender systems; courses recommendation system; skyline BNL algorithm; top-kws algorithm; e-learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10061892
   
  
• Design and Validation of a Multidimensional Scale for Assessing Teachers' Perceptions Towards Artificial Intelligence in Education  
  by Hector Galindo-Domínguez, Martin Sainz De La Maza, Lucía Campo, Daniel Losada 
  Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) is a technology that has gained popularity in the educational field. In this regard, understanding teachers’ attitudes toward this technology is crucial for more efficient future implementations. However, the instruments and studies analysing teachers' perceptions toward AI are excessively scarce. The aim of this study was to design and validate a scale to measure teachers’ perceptions toward AI. A total of 445 teachers from Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education participated in the study. The final scale consisted of a total of 25 items divided into 4 dimensions (Willingness to use AI, Attitude toward AI, Professional expectations toward AI, and Personal experiences with AI), demonstrating excellent validity and reliability indices. Likewise, it was observed that teachers scored moderately high in the Willingness to use AI dimension, but moderately low in the Personal experiences with AI dimension; and, that differences in the dimensions based on educational stage were scarce.
  Keywords: artificial intelligence; AI; teacher attitudes; teacher behaviour; assessment; questionnaire.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10062094
   
  
• A practical study on the use of MOOC for Geo-Informatics education on the edX platform  
  by Xiaojing Song 
  Abstract: The first MOOC course on geoinformatics, "Maps and the Geospatial Revolution" was provided as video materials by Penn State in July 2013, since then, the number of geoinformatics MOOC courses has increased significantly (Robinson et al., 2015). This study uses the edX geo-informatics course model as the origin of the experimental results to explore how to use MOOC design similar distance learning programs and improve upon them. Based on analysis of the course specifics, study population, drop-out rate, completion rate, and post-course questionnaire, quantitative data analysis was employed to answer the question of MOOC geo-informatics learning on edX; based on evaluating and examining particular data, an emphasis was placed on investigating the uses of MOOCs in the geoinformatics curriculum. The results show that MOOCs are an excellent method to support the dissemination of knowledge of Geo-informatics (Lee and de Vries, 2019).
  Keywords: MOOC; Geo-Informatics; active learners; completion rate; passing rate; drop-out rate; e-learning.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10062132
   
  
• Technological-pedagogical knowledge in problem-solving teaching: an exploratory study of mathematics teachers  
  by Astri Wahyuni, Yaya S. Kusumah, Bambang Avip Priatna Martadiputra, Agus Hendriyanto 
  Abstract: The development of technology has brought about modern ideas in teaching and learning. This research study investigates how experienced Mathematics teachers use digital tools to solve non-routine mathematical problems and communicate their solutions. A qualitative study with a case study design found that effective technology integration in mathematics education requires a deep understanding of mathematical problem-solving, effective use of digital tools, and a strong TPACK framework. Teachers must be adept at selecting and creating mathematical problems, choosing problem-solving models, and facilitating students' problem-solving skills through appropriate tasks. Although technology can enhance traditional teaching methods, it should be used wisely and purposefully to support and enhance the teacher's role, rather than replace it. In addition, teachers need to consider their students' diverse learning needs and use various teaching strategies to ensure that technology is effectively integrated into their teaching practices.
  Keywords: mathematical teaching; problem-solving; technology in education; TPACK.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10062134
   
  
• Investigating the Adoption of E-Learning as a Sustainable Solution in Higher Education Using the TAM Model  
  by Anshita Chelawat, Richal Tuscano, Roshani Prasad, Seema Sant 
  Abstract: This study aims to explore factors predicting the use of e-learning as a sustainable solution in Indian Higher Education Institutions by employing a modified version of the technology acceptance model (TAM). An online questionnaire (n = 200), capturing post-graduate management students from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, was analysed using PLS-SEM and SPSS. Based on the theoretical model, perceived ease of use (PEOU), perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived enjoyment (PE) are the factors responsible for predicting students’ behavioural intention to use e-learning (BI) followed by actual usage (AU) which ultimately leads to the use of e-learning as a sustainable solution (ELSS). The results indicated that while PEOU has no significant impact on BI, PU and PE significantly affect BI. The study also validates the TAM model, as acceptance of e-learning is predicted by the users’ BI. The study concludes that for ELSS, the use of e-learning should be promoted.
  Keywords: e-learning; online learning; sustainability; sustainable solution; technology acceptance model; TAM; higher education; HE.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10062596
   
  
• Strengthening Business English Skills: Investigating Student Perceptions of Creating Product Videos in an ESP Course  
  by Wen-Chi Hu 
  Abstract: This study investigated students' viewpoints on using product video creation to foster their Business English skills in an English for specific purposes (ESP) course. The study aimed to examine the extent to which students could enhance their conversational flow, language usage, and practical expression skills by creating videos to promote a product or service. The participants included 44 university students who enrolled in Business English. In this class, they received instruction on the Business English language and were tasked with creating promotional videos for a chosen product or service. Data were collected through questionnaires, interviews, and rubric-based assessments of the videos. The results revealed that the use of crowdfunding video creation as a learning framework contributed positively to the participants' English usage, persuasion skills, and creativity. The findings suggested that incorporating video production tasks in an ESP class can enhance video editing, collaboration of thoughts and ideas, contextual use of expression, objective evaluation, and logical flow of conversation, preparing students to communicate effectively in the dynamic global business environment.
  Keywords: constructivism; English for specific purposes; ESP; video creation; digital literacy.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10063782
   
  
• Development and validation of the online learning experience scale for art majors in Chinese tertiary education  
  by Puyiqiu Liu, Zheng Huang, YunFeng Zhang, Xiaoshu Xu 
  Abstract: This study aimed to develop and validate the online learning experience scale for art students (OLESA) in higher education. A qualitative-quantitative sequential mixed-method design was used for the instrument validation. According to the widely-accepted scale development process, this study followed the steps of item pool generation, expert validation (N = 5), pilot test (N = 100), reliability test, and confirmatory factor analysis (N = 455). The final version of the OLESA comprised four categories, including the learning environment, learning relationships, learning activities, and learning gains. The scale demonstrated adequate reliability and validity. The study revealed that the online learning experience of arts students is satisfactory, although there were unsatisfactory situations. The current study can provide practical implications for art universities or colleges to conduct online teaching better and improve the students' online learning experience and the quality of online courses.
  Keywords: online learning; learning experience; online learning experience; art courses; art majors; scale development; tertiary education; learning technology.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064251
   
  
• A Hybrid Recommendation System for E-Learning Based on the Design Social Science Research Process Model  
  by Chandrakant Mallick, Syamalendu Pati, Dr. Bijay Paikaray, Jayanta Mondal 
  Abstract: Existing e-learning systems have the potential for improvement in terms of real-time scalability and personalised adaptation, which could improve the learning experiences of individual users. The study uses the design science research (DSR) process to explore potential enhancements to e-learning systems through collaborative filtering recommendation systems (CFRS). It expands on earlier theories and proposes a DSRP-based hybrid recommendation system to improve the user experience in e-learning. The proposed technique incorporates key prototype modelling approaches like collaborative filtering, machine learning, and clustering. Specialists seeking new approaches to improve online education, such as information system researchers and e-learning practitioners, are the intended audience for this method. It has practical applications in addition to its theoretical merits.
  Keywords: E-learning; Recommendation System; Social Science; Information System.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064258
   
  
• Exploring Digital Storytelling in Mathematics Education: A Systematic Review of Trends, Benefits, and Implementation Challenges  
  by Angga Hidayat, Tryanti Abdulrahman, Muhammad Zulqurnain Ul Haq Qazi 
  Abstract: The surge in technology, especially the prevalence of social media video platforms among the youth, underscores the need for incorporating digital tools in education. Despite its potential, a dearth of research exists on the merits and demerits of employing digital storytelling in math education. This study aims to scrutinise trends and delve into the advantages and challenges of this approach. Utilising PRISMA framework, the review initially identified 180 Scopus and 118 Web of Science documents, narrowing down to 64 and 67 English-language articles, respectively. A further review yielded 17 articles for systematic analysis, which were analysed using biblioshiny to examine the trends. Findings suggest that digital storytelling in mathematics education facilitates engagement, understanding, and meaningful learning experiences, fostering cognitive and emotional development, competency growth, collaboration, constructivist learning, and transferable skills. Implementation challenges encompass curriculum alignment, technological obstacles, low technological self-efficacy, and potential cultural and curriculum disparities impacting project effectiveness.
  Keywords: digital storytelling; mathematics education; technology integration; systematic review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064272
   
  
• Exploring the influence of social media information quality, and perceived usefulness on academic achievement: the mediating role of usage of social media  
  by Badr Saleh, Abdallah M.M. Badr, Rozilah Kasim, FAISAL ALI 
  Abstract: Despite the embarking breakthrough of social medial in revolutionising communication and information access, the quality of information for students and scholars remain a concern. This paper investigates the effects of social media information quality and perceived usefulness on academic achievement. It also investigates the mediating role of usage of social media on the relationship between information quality, and academic achievement, as well as between perceived usefulness and academic achievement. Toward this end, data was collected from 445 students at King Khalid University in Saudi Arabia using a survey-based method. The findings of this study revealed a direct influence of the perceived usefulness, usage of social media and information quality on academic achievement, however, the perceived usefulness has a direct influence on social media. Additionally, the usage of social media has mediating effects on the relationships between the quality of information and academic achievement as well as perceived usefulness and academic achievement. These findings are of potential interest to Saudi higher education institutions, for improving student achievement.
  Keywords: social media; information quality; perceived usefulness; and academic achievement.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2023.10064325
   
  
• Pre-service science teachers' computational thinking skills and STEM self-efficacy  
  by Merve Lütfiye Şentürk, Uğur Sari 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine pre-service science teachers' CT skills and STEM self-efficacy in terms of different variables and to reveal the relationship between them. The participants of the study, in which the survey model was used, consist of 334 pre-service science teachers studying in state universities. CT skills and STEM self-efficacy scales were used as data collection tools. Single-factor MANOVA, correlation and linear regression analyses were used for the analysis of the data. In the study, it was determined that pre-service science teachers' grade level, level of technology interest, level of computer knowledge, activities/design/experiment/practice studies they carried out in undergraduate education and their STEM education were determinants of their CT skills and STEM self-efficacy. In addition, a positive relationship was determined between STEM self-efficacy and CT skills, and it was observed that creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, algorithmic thinking, and problem solving skills were predictors of CT and STEM self-efficacy.
  Keywords: Computational thinking; STEM; STEM self-efficacy; pre-service science teachers; teacher training.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064384
   
  
• Online Learning: Undergraduates Satisfaction and Roles of ICT infrastructure  
  by Pham Ngoc Thien Nguyen, Khanh-Trinh Tran 
  Abstract: During COVID-19, online learning proved crucial in ensuring continuous education. Post-pandemic, the necessity for online learning to align with learner satisfaction persists. This study investigated factors, including information communication technology (ICT) infrastructure (comprising learning support devices and Internet quality) and skill development, which impact online learning satisfaction. A convenient sample of 250 Vietnamese undergraduates, each of whom had completed at least one online course, participated in the survey. The results from the linear regression analysis revealed that both ICT infrastructure and skill development significantly contributed to the variance in students' online learning satisfaction. Furthermore, skill development partially mediated the relationship between learning support devices/Internet quality and online learning satisfaction. Situated within the technology acceptance model (TAM), these findings emphasise the critical roles played by both ICT infrastructure and skill development in achieving learning satisfaction. The study contributes theoretical insights and practical implications, offering valuable scientific evidence to advance online learning.
  Keywords: online learning; learning satisfaction; skill development; ICT infrastructure; undergraduates.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064727
   
  
• Recommender Systems in Education: Systematic Review and Future Outlook  
  by Feng Wang, Yitong Liu, Zhu Zou, Ze Liu 
  Abstract: Against the background of increasingly diversified educational contents and learners' demands, continuous growth in the number of users and the scale of educational resources, and diversified educational environments, recommender systems in the field of education face challenges such as cold start, poor scalability, and difficulty in integrating online and offline education. The purpose of this paper is to systematically sort out recommender systems using the systematic literature review method and PRISMA to analyse its different development characteristics in the last decade in terms of the types of recommendation items, recommendation algorithm applications, feature engineering methods, evaluation metrics diversity, system types, etc. and to focus on the latest research results in this field in the last five years. Meanwhile, the new challenges and characteristics it faces are elaborated. Finally, the critical future development directions of the field are inferred and foreseen.
  Keywords: recommender systems; e-learning; online learning; online education; review; LDA.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064826
   
  
• ChatGPT and Higher Education: Examining Early Public Opinions through Sentiment Analysis of Online News  
  by Areej Yousef, Yangsheng Zheng, Eunjae Park, Ahmad Abdel-Hafez 
  Abstract: The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot ChatGPT has stirred interest in the higher education sector and the public. Public opinions, particularly those conveyed through online news, are likely to exert discursive influences on how society responds to AI innovations. The current study provides early insights into the public sentiment in online news articles around ChatGPT and higher education using a mixed methods approach. Through Python and SPSS, we compiled a dataset of 919 news articles, finding a positive sentiment in 856 articles (93.1%). Key trends concerning the prevalence of news published in English-speaking nations were also identified. By adopting Fairclough's critical discourse analysis approach to unpack negative sentiment, we unveiled public concerns around ChatGPT replacing the need for human empathy, increasing the risk of academic integrity/plagiarism, spreading misinformation and job losses. We emphasise the importance of understanding ChatGPT’s functionalities and imposing regulations to ensure ethical AI usage.
  Keywords: ChatGPT; artificial intelligence; AI; higher education; online news; sentiment analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10064945
   
  
• The Impact of Game-Based Learning (GBL) On Learners' Academic Performance, Social Skills and Academic Emotions in Computer Studies  
  by Ayaz Muhammad Hanif, Zohra Saleem, Yasir Javed, Abdel Karim Al Tamimi 
  Abstract: Educational game (EG) has emerged as a potent tool driving educational innovation. Investigating how educational emotions can bridge gaps in EG for computer science education is an emerging but insufficiently explored area. The research explores the relationship between academic performance, social skills, and academic emotions using experimental research based on Driver and Oldham model. It utilised techno-emotive learning environment model (TELEM), based on a web-based educational game (EG) to teach fifth, sixth, and seventh-grade students from five schools using a sequential explanatory design. Out of 170 participants, experimental group (n = 91) used the EG, and a control group (n = 79) received traditional classroom instructions. The EG users demonstrated higher social skills compared to the control group. The experimental group exhibited a noteworthy improvement in the social skills (optimism, zest and curiosity) compared to the control group. Additionally, the experimental group displayed a statistically significant, albeit moderate, enhancement in cognitive outcomes. The findings also revealed that hope' did not mediate the relationship, while enjoyment partially mediated the connection between learners declining performance and post-test scores. Anxiety partially mediated the relationship between declining performance and both pre-test and post-test scores.
  Keywords: game-based learning; academic performance; social skills; academic emotions; primary education; computer studies.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2024.10065083