Absenteeism and the Use of Online Learning Modules

Action Research Study for Middle School Students

Lisa Thelen

University of Hawaii at Manoa

mcdown@hawaii.edu

Problem

• Student absences cause a disruption to learning

• Loss of valuable instruction time

Background

• Absenteeism is increasing at an alarming rate.• Studies show direct correlation between

absences and academic performance• Changes in educational delivery methods• Increased computer accessibility and usage• Data shows no difference in student

performance in online and traditional settings• Concerns with quality of instruction• Magnified in younger grades

Learning methods

Research directed Question

How prepared are middle school students to receive instructional materials in an online format?

Target Audience

• 24 Middle School Students– Focus on 6 students identified with 504 status

• Enrolled in Career and Business Technology Course

• 67% receive assistance for lunch and bus• 75% Asian/Pacific Islanders• 72% Internet Connection

Methods• Data collection via online surveys

•Demographic

•Level of Experience

•Post

Methods (continued)• Moodle

Implementation

Weekly Computer Use

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< 2 2 to 5 6 to 9 10+

Hours Per Week

Nu

mb

er o

f S

tud

ents

Boys

Girls

Module Design

• Design of module followed Gagne’s Nine Events of Instruction

• Four sections (one revised)• Variety of delivery methods• Reflections posted on classroom blog• Skills/Interest inventories

Results

• Five folders revised to seven • 92% comfortable editing/formatting

Microsoft Word docs• 89% comfortable posting blog

Results (cont)

Results

• Online collaboration a challenge• 32% felt comfortable working on group

project online

Results• Learning curve for using Web 2.0 tools• Overwhelmed with process of using tools• Preferred receiving assignments in

Voicethread format

Discussion

• Excessive absences continue to be an issue

• Use of online modules viable solution• More formal training necessary for

students

DISCUSSION

•Intrigued by the opportunity to learn

•Combination of synchronous and asynchronous most effective

•Offering variety of options for getting instructions

•Need additional prep with computers

•Not spatially mature enough

Thank you!

Good Evening… Any Questions???