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

Our research about „Federated virtual learning management in a European University alliance: General challenges and first experiences using LTI to connect LMS in Unite!“ was published at this year’s ED-Media conference in Brussels.

Abstract:
This paper explores the challenges and first experiences of implementing federated virtual learning management within the European University Alliance Unite!. Through the lens of Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI), the study investigates the complexities inherent in connecting Learning Management Systems (LMS) across diverse institutional contexts. This research examines the general hurdles faced by European university alliances in adopting federated LMS. Additionally, it outlines the LMS infrastructure of Unite! in early 2024 and discusses the pilot initiatives undertaken to utilize LTI for connecting LMS platforms at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz). The pilots involve integrating Unite!’s Metacampus with various platforms, including Moodle-based systems from TU Graz. Drawing from these pilot experiences, the paper presents insights and lessons learned regarding the efficacy of LTI in facilitating cross-platform connectivity within Unite! and offers implications for future implementations.

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

Reference: Schön, S., Ebner, M., Edelsbrunner, S., Gasplmayr, K., Hohla-Sejkora, K., Leitner, P. & Taraghi, B. (2024). Federated virtual learning management in a European University alliance: General challenges and first experiences using LTI to connect LMS in Unite!. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 123-136). Brussels, Belgium: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved July 22, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/224514/.

[publication] 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 #tugraz #unite #research

Our this year’s publication at ED-Conference 2024 in Brussels was about Teaching Management Patterns and titled „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

Abstract:
This paper introduces Teaching Management Patterns (TMP) as a descriptive and communicative framework for addressing challenges and decision-making processes related to IT infrastructure in the Unite! European university alliance. The aim is to support decision-making and consultation in utilizing the alliance’s IT infrastructure effectively. TMP offer abstract descriptions for educational scenarios, considering factors such as organizational structures, technical capabilities, legal frameworks, and didactic requirements. The paper presents the development of these patterns specifically for the Unite! alliance, highlighting their role in decision support for using the transversal, alliance wide learning management system, Metacampus. Three exemplary cases are presented to illustrate the challenges, including continuing education for staff, joint lectures involving multiple universities, and research contributions. The patterns are categorized based on their compatibility with Metacampus, providing visual representations. The paper also introduces a decision tree as a counseling tool for determining the appropriateness of using Metacampus, considering legal and organizational restrictions. In conclusion, TMP offer a systematic approach for addressing IT infrastructure complexities in a European university alliance. The presented patterns and decision tree serve as valuable consultation tools for decision-making processes regarding the use of the alliance’s IT infrastructure.

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

Reference: Schön, S., Gasplmayr, K., Ebner, M., Alcober, J., Hoppe, C., Koschutnig-Ebner, M., de Silva, F.M. & Taraghi, B. (2024). 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. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 137-146). Brussels, Belgium: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved July 22, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/224515/.

[imoox] Digital und Binnendifferenziert: Das Potential digital gestufter Lernhilfen für den Biologieunterricht #mooc

Wir freuen uns über einen weiteren MOOC-Start zum spannenden Thema „Digital und Binnendifferenziert: Das Potential digital gestufter Lernhilfen für den Biologieunterricht

Grundlegend handelt es sich bei dieser Fortbildung um eine Online-Selbstlerneinheit zum Potential digital gestufter Lernhilfen für den digitalen und binnendifferenzierten Biologieunterricht. Die Fortbildung ist in vier Basismodule und drei Aufbaumodule unterteilt. Die Basismodule bilden die Grundlage zur optionalen Vertiefung in einem oder mehreren der Aufbaumodule. Neben der Online-Selbstlerneinheit können die Kursteilnehmenden über Chat-Foren oder synchronen (Online-) Austauschformaten miteinander in Kontakt

  • Basismodul 1: Theoretische Grundlagen zu gestuften Lernhilfen (gLh), Heterogenität und Diklusion
  • Basismodul 2: Nutzungsweisen und Lernwirksamkeit von gLh
  • Basismodul 3: Gelingensbedingungen von gLh
  • Basismodul 4: Digitale Umsetzung von gLh mit Moodle, H5P und QR-Lernhilfe 
  • Aufbaumodul Erkenntnisgewinnung: Einführung in den Kompetenzbereich Erkenntnisgewinnung und Anwendungsbeispiele zum Themengebiet Experimentieren
  • Aufbaumodul Kommunikation:  Einführung in den Kompetenzbereich Kommunikation und Anwendungsbeispiele zum Themengebiet Genetik
  • Aufbaumodul Bewertung:  Einführung in den Kompetenzbereich Bewertung und Anwendungsbeispiele zum Themengebiet Ethik

Natürlich ist der Kurs kostenlos verfügbar: [Kostenlose Anmeldung zum MOOC]

[publication] The use of programming tasks in interactive videos to increase learning effectiveness at MOOCs #tugraz #mooc

Our publication at this year’s ED-Media conference titled „The use of programming tasks in interactive videos to increase learning effectiveness at MOOCs“ is now available online.

Abstract:
The importance of digital technologies, especially videos, increased over the course of the last few years. Whether they are used to watching the latest news or for entertainment purposes, one could say they have become almost omnipresent in everyday’s life. This development has also influenced education. Therefore, we want to examine the effects of interactive overlays such as programming tasks in interactive learning videos. For this purpose, a MOOC course was created to gain information about participants` learning success. To evaluate whether the interactive elements have a positive effect, two test groups completed the course. The results revealed that the test group with overlays performed better on average than the group without. Some limitations had to be considered, such as the smaller peer group that watched the videos without interactive elements.

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

Reference: Geier, G., Weiß, M., Wachtler, J. & Ebner, M. (2024). The use of programming tasks in interactive videos to increase learning effectiveness at MOOCs. In T. Bastiaens (Ed.), Proceedings of EdMedia + Innovate Learning (pp. 38-47). Brussels, Belgium: Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE). Retrieved July 22, 2024 from https://www.learntechlib.org/primary/p/224503/.

[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/.

[ijet, journal] Journal of Emerging Technologies in Learning Vol. 19 / No.06 #ijet #research

Issue 19(06) of our journal on emerging technologies for learning got published. Enjoy the readings as usual for free :-).

Table of Contents:

  • Exploring the Impacts of Implementing Block Mode of Teaching in Higher Education
  • Where Is the Teacher in Data Analytics in Education?
  • Integration of AI and Metaheuristics in Educational Software: A Hybrid Approach to Exercise Generation
  • A Virtual Reality Game to Promote the Role of a Healthy Diet in Male Reproduction
  • The Effect of ChatGPT on Education in the UAE
  • Designing, Coding and Embroidering

[Link to Issue 19/06]

Nevertheless, if you are interested to become a reviewer for the journal, please just contact me 🙂 .

[mooc] Informatik-Fit (2024/25) #imoox #tugraz

Heute startet ein weiterer Brückenkurs der TU Graz – „Informatik-Fit (2024/25)„. Damit wollen wir unsere zukünftigen Studierenden unterstützen, sich auch in diesem Fachbereich ein wenig einzuarbeiten:

Die Vielfalt der Probleme, die in der Informatik behandelt werden, macht eine kurze und dennoch vollständige Definition dessen, was Informatik ist, unmöglich.
Unmöglich ist es auch, alle Themen in einem Einführungskurs unterzubringen.
Irgendwo müssen wir aber trotzdem anfangen und so haben wir versucht, die wichtigsten Grundbegriffe und Ideen der Informatik auszuwählen und diese so zu vermitteln, dass sich die Teilnehmer:innen schnell ein breiteres Bild von der Informatik machen können.
Darüber hinaus soll es für die Teilnehmer:innen möglich sein, Zusammenhänge zwischen den einzelnen Themen zu erkennen bzw. herzustellen. 

Hier gibt es den Trailer zum MOOC:

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Die Anmeldung ist natürlich frei und der Kurs kostenlos: [Link zur Anmeldung]

Hinweis: Es wird bei diesem MOOC erstmals ein Chatbot zum Einsatz kommen – nachdem die ganze Welt über Künstliche Intelligenz redet, wollen wir uns auch bei iMooX dem Thema widmen und praktisch erproben, wie ein solcher Bot beim Lernen helfen kann. Viel Spaß beim Testen bzw. Lernen 🙂

[mooc] DigitEx – Exkursionen digital gedacht! #imoox #ludwigsburg

Unsere Partner aus Ludwigsburg hat nun auch einen MOOC gestartet zu „DigitEx – Exkursionen digital gedacht!

Entdecken Sie die innovative Fortbildung für digital gestützte Exkursionen der Pädagogischen Hochschule Ludwigsburg!
Unser Kurs im blended-learning Format richtet sich an Lehrkräfte aller Schulformen und bietet flexible Lernmöglichkeiten. Das Ziel der Fortbildung ist die lernwirksame und adaptive Anwendung von digitalen Technologien im Unterricht und an außerschulischen Lernorten.
Der Kurs wird als Open Educational Resource (OER) angeboten und ist modular aufgebaut. Er kann je nach Vorkenntnissen vollständig oder punktuell bearbeitet werden und ermöglicht jederzeit einen flexiblen Start und eine Pause. Unser Kurs bietet Ihnen in allen 6 Modulen informative Videos, zusätzliche Literatur, Praxisbeispiele und vielfältige Möglichkeiten zur direkten Kommunikation mit uns, entweder per Video-Konferenz oder im Forum.
Nutzen Sie diese Gelegenheit, Ihre digitalen Fähigkeiten zu erweitern und melden Sie sich an!

Selbstverständlich ist der Kurs kostenlos und wir freuen uns auf viele Anmeldungen: [Link zur kostenlosen Anmeldung]

[open education] OER about OER #training #OER

We are excited to announce the publication of our new resource: OER about OER  – Materials, Tools, and Methods. This collection, was initiated by Sandra Schön and me and enriched by the Unite! OER Courses project is designed to support educators, trainers, and institutions in developing and delivering Open Educational Resources (OER) courses.

The document includes practical insights into planning and running OER trainings, introduces open licenses, and provides templates, exercises, and creative methods like the „OER business model cards“ to help spark
discussions on sustainable OER use. Whether you’re new to OER or looking to deepen your knowledge, this resource is a valuable tool for expanding your understanding and application of OER in educational settings.

You can access the full document at https://doi.org/10.3217/5bq59-j6c60

Cite it: Schön, Sandra & Ebner, Martin (2024). OER about OER. Materials, tools & methods. A collection of Open Educational Resources materials, tools and methods. Report of the Unite! OER Courses project, August 2024. URL: https://doi.org/10.3217/5bq59-j6c60

[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/