ERIC Number: EJ1138170
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1027-5207
EISSN: N/A
Learner Attrition in an Advanced Vocational Online Training: The Role of Computer Attitude, Computer Anxiety, and Online Learning Experience
Stiller, Klaus D.; Köster, Annamaria
European Journal of Open, Distance and E-Learning, v19 n2 p1-14 2016
Online learning has gained importance in education over the last 20 years, but the well-known problem of high dropout rates still persists. According to the multi-dimensional learning tasks model, the cognitive (over)load of learners is essential to attrition when dealing with five challenges (e.g. technology, user interface) of an online training (Tyler-Smith, 2006). The experienced load might depend on learner characteristics. The study explored the extent that learners dropping out from a vocational video-based online training about media design for employees of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises differ from working learners' online learning experience, computer attitude, and computer anxiety. The data were collected from 72 of 128 registered employees who completed a questionnaire before starting the course to analyze differences between the dropout group (submitted no solutions to online training tasks; n = 19) and the active learner group (submitted at least one of 13 task solutions; n = 53). No differences were found in online learning experience, but the dropout group reported more negative attitudes towards computers and a higher level of computer anxiety than the active learner group.
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Student Attrition, Advanced Courses, Online Courses, Vocational Education, Computer Literacy, Academic Aptitude, Computer Attitudes, Anxiety, Learning Experience, Cognitive Processes, Difficulty Level, Dropouts, Video Technology, Job Training, Employees, Small Businesses, Comparative Analysis, Questionnaires, Likert Scales, Negative Attitudes, Scores
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Germany
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A