Students' perception of assurance, utilization of a pilot program: Synchronized online discussions

Abstract

The IRB-approved research focuses on information technology students' (n=23) perceptions of comfort, confidence, and utilization of the pilot program to understand its value. The study questions the usefulness of academic instructors in higher education at a Southeastern Atlantic University's model to employ online synchronized lectures in LMS systems. The goal of the program focused on reducing anxieties and distance separation from online learners. The researchers' observations cannot be generalized to state that synchronized virtual appearances create an increase or propensity for online student retention. However, the research highlights positive student perceptions of comfort, confidence, and utilization of the program, like the use of embedded librarian program. Additionally, the findings indicate parallel considerations of students' perceptions of embedded programs and suggest limited notes of perceived greater levels of self- efficacy. Furthering, the researchers disclose a larger need for a cross-generational quantitative study and note the geographical limitations, socio-economic constraints, and technology gaps limitations create the inability to generalize the study to a larger population.