The Learning Impact of a Virtual Learning Environment: Students’ views

Abstract

Virtual learning environments (VLEs) are widely used in education, in many sectors, typically to deliver instructional materials and facilitate communication.  This article reports on an online survey into VLE use by 248 second year students at an English Sixth Form College (SFC).  The survey investigated the reported impact of using the college’s VLE (Moodle) on learning, and was based on three research questions which investigated: whether the use of a VLE has a positive impact on student learning; whether the use of a VLE in teaching and learning helps develop independent learning; and whether the use of a VLE increases students’ motivation to learn.  The statistically significant findings report that the use of Moodle produces improvement in learning and motivation to learn as reported by the student participants.  The findings will be of broad interest to teachers as they indicate areas for attention in promoting VLE use to enhance learning.

  Keywords

Virtual learning environments; student view / voice; motivation; independent learning.