Abstract:

Recent studies have found that students face challenges such as poor motivation, concentration, and learning difficulties due to their early exposure to technology. Teachers are struggling to adapt traditional methods for tech-savvy generations. This means that teaching needs to be more interactive, purposeful, and stimulating (Caamano-Navarrete et al., 2021; Lilly, 2019; Ma and Wei, 2015). Despite the challenges, technology can help to improve learning and teaching and enhance the quality of education. Digital technology has a significant role in education, and open digital content can make educational resources more accessible to everyone (UNESCO, 2023). The recent COVID-19 pandemic has further emphasized the importance of digital transformation in education.

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of interactive video lessons on history, which were developed as part of the Procurement of Digital Educational Content (DEC) project - phase 2. This project is part of the e-Schools program, led by the Croatian Academic and Research Network (CARNET). The program, titled e-Schools: Complete Computerization of School Business Processes and Teaching Processes, aims to establish digitally mature schools for the 21st century and has been operational since 2015. The program's goal is to computerise Croatian schools through infrastructure services and educational activities. DEC was created for 15 subjects from 5th-grade primary schools to 4th-grade secondary schools. A total of 155 interactive video lessons on history were created during 2022 and 2023.

Interactive video lessons on history were developed based on pedagogical and methodical guidelines. The lessons are divided into three parts: a motivational introduction, a central content processing section, and a final synthesis and evaluation part. During the lessons, the teacher presents the content with interactive elements and multimedia, while instructing students on the various tasks they must perform. Students also receive feedback on their responses to the tasks. The content is presented in a visually engaging and interactive way, encouraging students to participate actively in the learning process. Interactive elements of the lower level (such as puzzles, tables, and quizzes) and higher level (such as surveys, planners, interactive videos with questions, 3D models and Panorama 360) are used to make the lessons more engaging and informative.

The interactive video lessons are an effective way for students to learn about history and engage in an active learning process. The DEC created by this project offers several advantages. The content is open and easily accessible to everyone, whether online or offline. It is also compatible with mobile applications, making it convenient for students to learn from anywhere. The lessons are designed to encourage self-assessment, self-study, and work at home. They are also tailored to meet the needs of students with special educational needs. Teachers using the DEC can apply innovative teaching methods based on modern educational principles.

Keywords:

Digital educational content, interactive video lessons, history.