ERIC Number: EJ1463718
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025
Pages: 11
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1925-4741
EISSN: EISSN-1925-475X
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Comparison of the Effectiveness of Distance Learning for Software Courses in Higher Education: Videos vs. Texts
Yaron Ghilay
Higher Education Studies, v15 n1 p30-40 2025
This study investigates the effectiveness of video-based learning compared to traditional text-based methods in distance education for software courses. The research was based on two samples of students (n[subscript 1] = 32, n[subscript 2] = 30) enrolled in the "Fundamentals of PSPP" distance course at the N.B. School of Design and Education (PSPP is a free alternative to SPSS). Students were asked to fill in a questionnaire at the end of the year indicating their views on the two methods of learning. Results indicate that students who utilized video content exhibited higher levels of understanding and satisfaction. Videos combining visual and auditory elements were found to significantly enhance learning outcomes by reducing cognitive load and providing clearer demonstrations of software procedures. The study highlights the advantages of video-based learning in fostering a sense of connection between instructors and students, which enhances motivation and engagement in asynchronous learning environments. The study concludes that video-based learning is a superior method compared to text-based learning for teaching complex software skills in distance education, promoting higher student achievement and engagement.
Descriptors: Distance Education, Instructional Effectiveness, Computer Software, Video Technology, Computer Mediated Communication, Auditory Stimuli, Multimedia Instruction, Teacher Student Relationship, Teaching Methods, Foreign Countries, Statistics Education, Business Education, Undergraduate Students, Asynchronous Communication, Academic Achievement, Student Motivation, Learner Engagement
Canadian Center of Science and Education. 1595 Sixteenth Ave Suite 301, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3N9
Canada. Tel: 416-642-2606; Fax: 416-642-2608; e-mail: hes@ccsenet.org; Web site: http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/hes
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Israel (Haifa)
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A