Abstract:

Universities throughout the world are trying to fit distant (e-)learning into their study programs. The initial extreme emotions – from optimistic assumption that it will eventually replace traditional in campus learning to condemnation of the novelty as decidedly inferior to face-to-face education – are being replaced by questions which aspects of the didactic process can be moved online without the loss of quality, and which should perhaps be moved online because they might enhance the learning outcome. The main criteria are: meeting course objectives, learning effectiveness, as well as convenience – both for students and their tutors.

It appears that online learning has become an indelible part of the education system, especially in the form of blended learning supporting ‘traditional’ full-time and part-time study programs. PJAIT has extensive experience in designing and running a new type of programs – online studies. We developed and successfully implemented our own educational platform (1). Bearing in mind that e-learning is increasing in popularity, it is necessary to monitor the quality of the system, the didactic materials, and teaching methodology. Conclusion must be drawn regarding necessary changes in order to further enhance the learning experience and its outcome. Appropriate action must be taken.

The aim of this paper is to present the results of an evaluation of online learning at the Polish-Japanese Academy of Information Technology, including the assessment of our e-learning platform, the didactic materials used for online and blended learning. The paper will also discuss the survey among the students of online studies and the students of full-time stationary studies who participate in courses facilitated by the e-learning platform. The respondents expressed their expectations regarding the preferred mode and method of course delivery. We use the results of surveys to better adjust the syllabuses and teaching to the needs of our students. The methods and materials used in e-learning have been appreciated by students participating in online study programs. Blended learning is increasingly popular among full-time stationary students. Our materials repositories feature an increasing number of video-based lectures and chats are gradually being replaced with video conferences, thus enabling students to have better contact with their tutors. These are just a few conclusions and actions implemented following the survey. Further results are presented in the paper.

In the current academic year of 2018/2019 we are running a new project with the view to designing and implementing a new platform which will facilitate both administration and learning processes at the Academy. Special module will be dedicated to distant learning.

References:
[1] A. Drabik, J.P. Nowacki, L.Banachowski, P.Lenkiewicz, The development of an e-learning environment at the Polish-Japanese Academy of Information Technology, EDULEARN18 Proceedings, 10th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies, Palma (Spain), 2-4 July, 2018, p. 1034-1039.

Keywords:

e-learning, evaluation, developmnet of e-learnig platform.