Exploring Theoretical Frameworks

In a recent assignment, we worked together to explore three theoretical frameworks. Here is the annotated bibliography that we developed, followed by a link to our Prezi, which hopes to provide further context to these frameworks.

The three theoretical frameworks we explored include (a) cognitive load theory, (b) motivation theory, and (c) gamification theory.

Cognitive load theory states that learning happens best under conditions that align with human cognitive processes, and studies the implications for design and delivery of learning. Cognitive load refers to the amount of mental effort expended, based on the combination of a limited working memory and relatively unlimited long-term memory, organized in multiple elements, or schemas, that make up an individual’s knowledge base. Motivation theory classifies motivational concepts and theories into four categories based on areas of influence, including attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction (ARCS). The ARCS model, when framed as a problem-solving approach to E-learning engagement, assists in the development of learning interventions with the goal of increased learner success. Gamification theory deals with applying game-like rewards such as levels, badges, and points to non-game digital applications such as learning environments in order to have a positive influence on the motivation, engagement, and behaviours of participants.

Here are the three articles we explored that deal with cognitive load theory.

Kalyuga, S., & Singh, A.-M. (2016). Rethinking the boundaries of cognitive load theory in complex learning. Educational Psychology Review, 28(4), 831–852. doi:10.1037/0022-0663.96.3.558

Kirschner, P. A., Ayres, P., & Chandler, P. (2011). Contemporary cognitive load theory research: The good, the bad and the ugly. Computers in Human Behavior, 27(1), 99–105. doi:10.1016/j.chb.2010.06.025https://prezi.com/view/p00ucj034jM9xGCjGR2n/

Bradford, G. R. (2011). A relationship study of student satisfaction with learning online and cognitive load: Initial results. The Internet and Higher Education, 14(4), 217–226. doi:10.1016/j.iheduc.2011.05.001

Following from this study combining concepts from both cognitive load theory and motivation theory, we next consider motivation theory.

Keller, J., & Suzuki, K. (2004). Learner motivation and e-learning design: A multinationally validated process. Journal of Educational Media, 29(3), 229-239.

Huang, B., & Hew, K. F. (2016). Measuring learners’ motivation level in massive open online courses. International Journal of Information and Education Technology, 6(10), 759-764. doi:10.7763/ijiet.2016.v6.788

Mohamad, S. N., Embi, M. A., & Nordin, N. M. (2016). Designing E-Portfolio with ARCS motivational design strategies to enhance self-directed learning. Higher Education Studies, 6(4), 138. doi:10.5539/hes.v6n4p138

Our final theory deals with the specific motivation techniques found in gamification theory.

Seaborn, K., & Fels, D. I. (2015). Gamification in theory and action: A survey. International Journal of Human-Computer Studies, 74, 14-31. doi:10.1016/j.ijhcs.2014.09.006

Denny, P. (2013). The Effect of Virtual Achievements on Student Engagement. In Proceedings of the SIGCHI conference on human factors in computing systems (pp. 763-772). New York, NY, USA: ACM.

Hamari, J., Koivisto, J., & Sarsa, H. (2014). Does gamification work? — A literature review of empirical studies on gamification. In 2014 47th Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (pp. 3025–3034). doi:10.1109/HICSS.2014.377

Check out our Prezi to learn more.

Huge shout out to my partners on Team Superstar, Donna Baker and Angie Maksymetz.

Should I blog this?

One task that I have struggled with throughout this program is implementing an effective way to track the concepts and ideas I uncover while completing research. My current system does catalogue the sources themselves, including any highlights or impressions that stood out for me. Despite this, when I sit down to write a blog post or assignment, I find myself second-guessing if the ideas I propose are my own, or simply an amalgamation of the ideas I’ve gathered from the work of others.

In reflecting on the content of Melanie Wrobel’s presentation, what I realized is that my system does consider the parameters around plagiarism, but perhaps does not have enough focus on copyright. What I missed to date is how copyright includes the author’s control of how the work is used. This consideration resonates with me as I realize now that I have likely unintentionally broken copyright rules already in this blog.

Although the numerous considerations around copyright are confusing and daunting, the practical tools and best practices reviewed by Wrobel buoyed my resolve to continue blogging and contributing to digital and research communities. The best practice that I will focus on is to ask for permission when referencing existing work. By starting a conversation with the original copyright owner, I will clarify expectations so that preferences are understood and respected.

Reference

Wrobel, M. (2016). A Guide to Copyright [MP4 Recording]. Retrieved from https://ca-sas.bbcollab.com/site/external/playback/artifact?psid=2016-06-21.1617.M.BDF488F0ABC6DC5A10966179DD9E5E.vcr&aid=213200.

Patterns and passions.

As I watched George Veletsianos’s presentation, two things stood out for me. First, I was inspired when he shared that his research topics have many years of thinking behind them. In my experience, when ideas resurface and become patterns, they catch your attention and you begin to question them. Now at the very beginning of my research career, I find myself revisiting the patterns I have uncovered in my work to date. These are the ideas that I’m passionate about exploring, with the goal of uncovering tangible answers to anecdotal evidence collected from personal observations.

The second piece that stood out for me was Dr. Veletsiano’s description of breaking down a big idea to tease out what you are really working to answer. A key takeaway for me was the value of researching the work of others with similar questions to your own. By exploring the research published to date, you collect insights that work to strengthen and refine your original question. Moving forward, I plan to be mindful in recognizing, reflecting upon (and perhaps developing a system to map?) the connections and patterns I uncover, regardless if they align with or contrast my topic of interest.

References

Veletsianos, G. (Author). (2017, August 10). George Veletsianos on Research [Audio podcast]. Retrieved from