Effect of Using the Electronic Mind Map in the Educational Research Methodology Course for Master-Degree Students in the Faculty of Education

Abstract

The objective of this article is to study results of using the electronic mind map for the teaching and learning in educational research methodology course of Master's degree students in the Faculty of Education, Ramkhamhaeng University, Thailand by using quantitative and qualitative study. Study samples include one class of master degree students. Research tools are comprised of an attitude assessment - pre-study and post-study - form, a questionnaire, and an interview form. Analysis of quantitative data was performed by using fundamental statistics, the t - test (dependent) and the t - test (independent) while qualitative data was analyzed by using the content analysis technique. Results of quantitative study showed that the Free Mind program is the software mostly used by students to create mind map. After the electronic mind map was used, it was found that the students' post-study attitudes towards the research study subject are higher than their pre-study attitudes, at 0.05 level of statistical significance. In addition, the students considered that application of mind map is useful at the highest level. Meanwhile, results of qualitative study indicated that students had perceived usefulness of applying mind map into the research learning session. However, the teachers' own teaching and knowledge transfer techniques are still considered as an important part that improves students' knowledge and creates students' positive attitudes towards research.