Supporting the implementation of case activities using e-learning technologies

Abstract

The use of cases in education in the framework of activities is very effective, as students' engagement in the solution of authentic, and thus interesting, problems provides them motivation for learning. In recent years, the ongoing use of e-learning technologies in education has transformed the way teaching is being conducted. Although many of the studies found in bibliography compare the effectiveness of in class versus online teaching, these studies do not focus on the comparison of specific teaching methods and approaches. This work presents an empirical study aiming to compare the implementation of the case activities in class and online using a course management system in the framework of the subject matter of Didactics of Informatics. The results of this study will help identify the most effective way of conducting case study activities exploiting the advantages of in-class learning enhanced by the possibilities offered by e-learning technologies. © 2010 Springer-Verlag US.