Research Methods in e-Learning Systems : Perspectives on Design, Development, Assessment and Analysis

by Ifenthaler, Dirk; Isaias, Pedro

• ISBN13: 9781441995797
• ISBN10: 144199579X
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2012-05-31
• Publisher: Springer Verlag
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Summary

Advances in both cognitive psychology and computing have affected theeducational arena. The emergence of these two disciplines is increasing at a fast pace and affecting academia and professional practice in many ways. Technological advancements such as simulations, virtual reality, multi-agents systems and learning management systems have created both opportunities and areas of serious concerns.This volume addresses the challenges of research methods in elearningsystems. Traditionally quantitative methods have been the base forresearch in several disciplines and fields. Qualitative methods have emerged as a credible alternative and have been sustained over the years. More recently there has been a convergence between the two research approaches: mixed-methods approaches have been considered as a viable way to perform research and provide cross validation of results. However, as innovative e-learning systems are rapidly changing, research methodologies struggle to keep up with these technological developments. Therefore, it is argued that adequate research methodologies are required to address these new challenges.The book addresses quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods researchapproaches describing its main aspects and techniques for e-learningsystems. It devotes a section to presenting significant casestudies that illustrate how to design, assess, and analyze e-learning systems.