WebIntera-classroom: an interaction-aware virtual learning environment for augmenting learning interactions. Issue 6 (18th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chen, Jingjing; Xu, Jianliang; Tang, Tao; Chen, Rongchao
• Is Part Of: Interactive learning environments. Volume 25:Issue 6(2017)
• Page Start: 792
• Page End: 807
• Publication Date: 2017-08-18
• Subjects: Learning interaction -- virtual learning environment -- learning analytics -- pen-and-paper interface -- lecture recording; Educational technology -- United States -- Periodicals; 371.33
• DOI: 10.1080/10494820.2016.1188829
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-4820

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Interaction is critical for successful teaching and learning in a virtual learning environment (VLE). This paper presents a web-based interaction-aware VLE – WebIntera-classroom – which aims to augment learning interactions by increasing the learner-to-content and learner-to-instructor interactions. We design a ubiquitous interactive interface that integrates a pen-and-paper interface with a web-based whiteboard to promote effective learner-to-content interactions. We develop a learning analytics tool that instantly shows learners' learning interactions, with which instructors can supervise learner-to-instructor interactions. We implement a high-granularity Learning Analytics Engine (hgLAE) to broadcast, record and play a lecture recording. The hgLAE identifies hotspots in a lecture recording and raises students' awareness of the hotspots when they watch the recording. WebIntera-classroom has been deployed in 11 universities in China. The system obtained high satisfaction in the questionnaires ( N = 464) and face-to-face interviews ( N = 60) conducted with the users from China Jiliang University. We compared the students' performance, respectively, achieved in traditional classroom and in WebIntera-classroom at China Jiliang University during 2012–2013. The result demonstrates that the students could gain performance improvement by using WebIntera-classroom.