E-YEARNING: An examination of the use and preferences of students using online learning materials.

Abstract

This paper reports on the second phase of an ongoing project being carried out at Edith Cowan University (ECU) in Western Australia examining ECU Education students’ ownership and use of information and communication technolog ies (ICT). In particular the study gathered information concerning students’ self -perceived software skills and frequency of use, hardware ownership and frequency of use, access to and location of Internet use, preference for various types of online learni ng materials, and access and use of university email and the Blackboard virtual learning environment. It is critical that modern universities understand their students’ ICT capabilities in terms of hardware ownership, software facility, and preferences in order that online course and content delivery may be tailored to deliver effective, usable and engaging learning resources.