Student Survey Indicates Effective Online Learning Practices

Top Hat recently administered a survey of 3,400 undergraduate college students to learn about their experiences with the recent shift to online learning. The results provide some interesting insights into what aspects of these online courses had the most positive impact on student learning.

Students indicated there are certain technologies and teaching methods that they feel have been most helpful. Almost 80% of students say that video-conferencing tools such as Zoom and MS Teams have improved their online experience. These learners appreciate being able to view and interact with their instructor and classmates, plus having the flexibility to review recorded lectures at their own pace. Students also like being able to use those conferencing tools to communicate with their peers outside of class-time.

Online learners report that having more opportunities to interact with the instructor and other students helps build a sense of community which improves their learning experience. Students appreciate faculty who make frequent announcements, check-in with students about course progress, and provide timely feedback on assignments. Learners value having an open Discussion board where they can post questions about course activities that can be shared with their classmates. Being able to interact and work in smaller groups with their peers in Zoom breakout rooms is also viewed as an important activity to help establish relationships. Over 70% of students feel more engaged and motivated in courses that promote a sense of belonging and community.

Another key finding is that 77% of students responded that their instructors are including more active learning during class sessions to apply what they have learned. Students are attracted to quizzing tools such as Kahoot! and Socrative that provide opportunities for whole class interactions to review and enhance comprehension of course materials. When courses promote more in class activities, discussions, and collaborations 66% of online learners report more engagement with their learning.

The results of this survey indicate that using video-conferencing, creating a sense of community, and including active learning exercises can enhance the online course experience.