[publication] WhatsApp’s Reign and Email’s Consistency: A Longitudinal Study of Communication Preferences of Study Beginners at TU Graz (2011-2023) #tugraz #study

Our publication at this year’s ED-Media conference was the result of the annual evaluation „WhatsApp’s Reign and Email’s Consistency: A Longitudinal Study of Communication Preferences of Study Beginners at TU Graz (2011-2023)

Abstract:
Within the last 12 years, more than 11.800 students participated in annual surveys during the university’s “Welcome Days” amongst study beginners at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) in Austria. This paper presents an analysis of the digital communication tool from 2011 to 2023. The 2023 iteration provided insights into the prevailing trends, including the dominance of WhatsApp for both general and learning use, the notable reliance on email, and the increasing role of privacy-focused applications such as Signal and Telegram. We also observed a sustained interest in multipurpose devices over single-function gadgets, an upsurge in smartwatch usage, and a diversification in social media and leisure platforms, reflecting a shift towards more engaging and interactive digital experiences. This paper contributes to the discourse on educational technology by highlighting the intersection of student preferences, technological advancement, and institutional support, setting a precedent for future-proofing learning support in higher education.

[article @ publisher’s homepage]
[article @ ResearchGate]

Reference: Nagler, W., Mair, B., Ebner, M., Edelsbrunner, S. & Schön, S. (2024). WhatsApp’s Reign and Email’s Consistency: A Longitudinal Study of Communication Preferences of Study Beginners at TU Graz (2011-2023). In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 73-82). Brussels, Belgium: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved July 22, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/224506/.

[publication] Digital Learning during COVID-19. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Distance Learning at Universities in Austria #covid19 #edmedia #research

At this year’s EDMedia conference in Brussels we published a paper titled „Digital Learning during COVID-19. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Distance Learning at Universities in Austria„.

Abstract:
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly affected universities in Austria, leading to a rapid shift to distance learning. This study analyzed 59 surveys conducted between March 2020 and October 2021. The quality of distance learning varies among universities and lecturers. Effective communication and access to information along with an appropriate workload for online teaching are key aspects. Adequate examination dates, seats, and time to complete courses are necessary. Students appreciated video recordings and some examination formats but preferred face-to-face exams in the future. This shows that online teaching is useful as a complement but not in itself. Using blended and hybrid learning methods can preserve the identified advantages.

[article @ conference homepage]
[article @ researchgate]

Reference: Brünner, B., Findenig, K. & Ebner, M.(2024). Digital Learning during COVID-19. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Distance Learning at Universities in Austria. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 980-988). Brussels, Belgium: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). https://learntechlib.org/primary/p/224617/

[presentation] Federated virtual learning management in a European University alliance: General challenges and first experiences using LTI to connect LMS in Unite! #unite! #tugraz #research

The next presentation at this year’s ED-Media conference is „Federated virtual learning management in a European University alliance: General challenges and first experiences using LTI to connect LMS in Unite!„. Find here our slides:

[Link to slides @ ResearchGate]

[presentation] The Development of „Teaching Management Patterns“ from the Perspective of IT Infrastructure as a Tool for Consulting and Further Development in a European University Alliance #unite #tugraz #research

The next presentation at this year’s ED-Media conference is „The Development of „Teaching Management Patterns“ from the Perspective of IT Infrastructure as a Tool for Consulting and Further Development in a European University Alliance„. Find here our slides:

[Link to slides @ ResearchGate]

[publication] Exploring the Utilization of Online Resources and Experiences in Language Learning: A Study of Indonesian Students Learning German as a Foreign Language #languagelearning #TEL

Our research about „Exploring the Utilization of Online Resources and Experiences in Language Learning: A Study of Indonesian Students Learning German as a Foreign Language“ is now online available.

Abstract: This study examines the frequency of online resource utilization among German language students at Universitas Negeri Malang (Indonesia) who are at the B1 level. The aim of the research is to investigate the usage of websites and applications during German language studies. Standardized questions were administered to a sample of 54 students to gather information regarding their engagement with online resources throughout their coursework. Additionally, feedback on selected online resources was collected and assessed. The findings reveal that Indonesian students demonstrate a preference for using videos featuring interviews with native German speakers, alongside the inclusion of supportive subtitles to enhance comprehension. However, a significant challenge arises due to the lack of materials specifically tailored for Indonesian learners, which also clearly indicate the intended language proficiency level.

[preprint @ ResearchGate]
[publication @ publisher’s homepage]

Reference: Ebner, M., Schön, S., Hidayat, E. & Ardiyani, D.K. (2023). Exploring the Utilization of Online Resources and Experiences in Language Learning: A Study of Indonesian Students Learning German as a Foreign Language. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 1085-1090). Vienna, Austria: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved July 17, 2023 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/222623/.