Research Article Review

https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ864281

“An Investigation of Students Attitude and Motivation toward Online Learning”

In this study, Evelyn Knowles and Dennis Kerkman take a look at motivation and attitude amongst students enrolled in ‘Introduction to the Visual Arts” online at Park University. Research was conducted through surveys administered to students at the beginning and end of the semester regarding their experience. Both surveys asked students questions about their attitude regarding their experience with online learning. Questions regarding interest, self-management, and locus of control were asked only at the beginning of the course, while the end of class survey included questions on study process approach. General findings include that students had a more positive attitude about online learning at the end of the course than the beginning, and that students possesed a strong internal locus of control.

The researchers took a look at internal vs. external locus of control in order to identify the source of motivation for students. Motivation was studied in five different ways: Interest, Self-management, Locus of Control, Study Process and Attitude. Questions were asked in each of these categories to essentially determine a numerical score to measure their findings and collect data amongst the students. The study found that although most students had a high internal locus of control, it was the students that were more externally motivated that scored the highest on exams. The grading for this course consisted of 3 exams as well as a final exam in which students were asked questions regarding recall of terms and concepts introduced throughout the course. Students also showed a high level of interest in the course content, which would also play a factor in their overall success in the course.

Overall, I feel that this study provides interesting results regarding the learning experience amongst this specific group of students; however there are limitations in this study because information is only collected from one class of students rather than across different groups of students in various online courses. I feel there is not enough variety to make conclusive statements about student motivation regarding online courses in general. Beyond this survey, I agree with beginning the semester with a survey to gather information about student interests and motivation. Whether it is an online, blended or traditional class I think it’s always important to know the students in your class and to be aware of their interests, expectations, and motivation for taking the course. This information will help make the course more productive and worthwhile for all students, and even help them reflect on these questions and understand how they are approaching the class. Ultimately it is up to students and instructors to work together to find ways to make the class successful.