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Cloud Computing Technologies in Writing Class: Factors Influencing Students’ Learning Experience

Year 2017, Volume: 18 Issue: 3, 197 - 213, 01.07.2017
https://doi.org/10.17718/tojde.328954

Abstract

The proposed interactive online group within the cloud computing technologies as a main contribution of this paper provides easy and simple access to the cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) system and delivers effective educational tools for students and teacher on after-class group writing assignment activities. Therefore, this study addresses the implementation of the most commonly used cloud applications, Google Docs, in a higher education course. The learning environment integrated Google Docs that students are using to develop and deploy writing assignments in between classes has been subjected to learning experience assessment. Using the questionnaire as an instrument to study participants (n=28), the system has provided an effective learning environment in between classes for the students and the instructor to stay connected. Factors influencing students’ learning experience based on cloud applications include frequency of interaction online and students’ technology experience. Suggestions to cope with challenges regarding the use of them in higher education including the technical issues are also presented. Educators are therefore encouraged to embrace cloud computing technologies as they design the course curriculum in hoping to effectively enrich students’ learning.


References

  • Anderson, N. J. (2005). L2 learning strategies. In E. Hinkel (Ed.), Handbook of Research in Second Language Teaching and Learning (pp. 757-771). New York, NY: Routledge. Biasutti, M. (2009). Evaluating a music e-learning resource: The participants’ perspective. Computers & Education, 53(3), 541-549. Biasutti, M. (2011). The student experience of a collaborative e-learning university module. Computers & Education, 57(3), 1865-1875. Borau, K., Ullrish, C., Feng, J., & Feng, R. (2009). Microblogging for language learning: Using twitter to train communicative and cultural competence. Advances in Web Based Learning, 78-87. Broin, D.O., & Raftery, D. (2011). Using Google Docs to support project-based learning. All Ireland Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 3(1). URL: http://ojs.aishe.org/index.php/aishe-j/article/view/35 Chamot, A. U. (2005). Language learning strategy instruction: Current issues and research. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 25(2995), 112-130. Cohen, A.D. (1998). Strategies in Learning and Using a Second Language. London, UK: Longman Conner, N. (2008). Google Apps: The missing manual. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media. Curry, L. (1987). Integrating Concepts of Cognitive or Learning Style: A review with attention to psychometric standards. Ottawa, Canada: Canadian College of Health Service Executives. Deters, F., Cuthrell, K., & Stapleton, J. (2010).Why wikis? Student perceptions of using wikis in online coursework. Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 6(1), 122-134. Dippold, D. (2009). Peer feedback through blogs: Student and teacher perceptions in an advanced German class. ReCALL, 21(1), 18-36. Doolittle, P.E. & Hicks, D. (2003). Constructivism as a theoretical foundation for the use of technology in social studies. Theory and Research in Social Education, 31(1), 72-104. 211 Ebner, M., Lienhardr, C., Rohs, M., & Meyer, I. (2009). Microblogs in higher education- A chance to facilitate informal and process-oriented learning? Computers & Education, 55, 92-100. Google (2015). Collaborate on docs. Google for Education, Tech Rep. Retrieved from https://www.google.co.in/intl/en_in/edu/products/productivity-tools/ Grosseck, G., & Holotesku, C. (2008). Can we use twitter for educational activities? Paper to be presented at the 4th International Scientific Conference eLSE eLearning and Software for Education. Retrieved from http://portaldoprofessor.mec.gov.br/storage/materiais/0000012008.pdf Gurpinar, E., Alimoglu, M.K., Mamakli, S., & Aktekin, M. (2010). Can learning style predicting student satisfaction with different instruction methods and academic achievement in medical education? Advances in Physiology Education, 34, 192-196. Hara, N., & Kling, R. (1999). Students’ frustrations with a Web-based distance education course. First Monday, 4(12). Retrieved from http://www.firstmonday.org/issues/issues4_12/hara/ Honey, P., & Mumford, A. (2006). The Learning Styles Questionnaire, 80-item version. Maidenhead, UK: Peter Honey. Honeycutt, C., & Herring, S.C. (2009). Beyound microblogging: Conversation and collaboration via Twitter. Proceedings of the Forth-Second Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (HICSS-42). Los Alamitos, CA: IEEE. Retrieved from http://info.ils.indiana.edu/~herring/honeycutt.herring.2009.pdf Jabbour, K.K. (2013). Cloud computing concepts for academic collaboration. Bulgarian Journal of Science and Education Policy, 7(1), 38-48. Katz, R.N. (2008). The Tower and the Cloud: Higher education in the age of cloud computing. Boulder, CO: EDUCAUSE. Kearsley, G. (2000). Online Education: Learning and teaching in cyberspace. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Thomson Learning. Keefe, J. W. (1991). Leaning Style: Cognitive & thinking skills. Reston, VA: National Association of Secondary School Principals. Kinsella, K. (1995). Understanding and empowering diverse learners. In J. M. Reid (Ed.), Learning Styles in the ESL/EFL Classroom (pp. 170-194). Boston, MA: Heinle. Koch, M. (2010). Utilizing emergent web-based software tools as an effective method for increasing collaboration and knowledge sharing in collocated student design teams. (Master’s thesis, University of Oregon). Retrieved from http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/xmlui/handle/1957/16855 Koh, E., & Lim, J. (2012). Using online collaboration applications for group assignments: The interplay between design and human characteristics. Computers & Education, 59(2), 481-496. Kolb, D. (1985). Learning Style Inventory. Boston, MA: McBer. Liaw, S., & Huang, H. (2007). Developing a collaborative e-learning system based on users’ perceptions. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 4402, 751-759. 212 Lin, C., Yu, W.W., & Wang, J. (2014). Cloud collaboration: Cloud-based instruction for business writing class. World Journal of Education, 4(6), 9-15. Retrieved from http://www.sciedu.ca/journal/index.php/wje/article/view/5884/3517 Loo, R. (2004). Kolb’s learning styles and learning preferences: Is there a linkage? Educational Psychology, 24, 99-108. Mell, P., & Grance, T. (2011). The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing. U.S. Department of Commerce Std. Special Publication, 800-145. Microsoft (2015). Cloud computing in education. Microsoft US Education, Tech Rep. Retrieved from http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/default.aspx Moor, M.G., & Kearsley, G. (1996). Distance Education: A systems view. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth. Oblinger, D. & Oblinger, J (2005). Is it age or IT: First steps Toward Understanding the Net Generation, Educause. Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/research-andpublications/books/educating-net-generation/it-age-or-it-first-steps-towardunderstanding-net-generation Oxford, R. L., & Anderson, N. (1995). A crosscultural view of learning styles. Language Teaching, 28(4), 201-215. Oxford, R., Hollaway, M., & Horton-Murrillo, D. (1992). Language learning style and strategies in the multicultural, tertiary L2 classroom. System, 20(3), 439-456. Parker, K.R., & Chao, J.T. (2007). Wiki as a teaching tool. Interdisciplinary Journal of Knowledge and Learning objects, 3, 57-72. Piccoli, G., Ahmad, R., & Ives, B. (2001). Web-based virtual learning environments: A research framework and a preliminary assessment of effectiveness in basic IT skill training. MIS Quarterly, 25(4), 401-426. Prensky, M. (2001). Digital natives, Digital Immigrants. On the Horizon, 9(5), 1-6. Robinson, G. (2002). Do general practioners’ risk-taking propensities and learning styles influence their continuing medical education preferences? Med Tech, 24, 71-78. Rovai, A.P. (2002). Sense of community, perceived cognitive learning, and persistence in asynchronous learning networks. Internet and Higher Education, 5(4), 319-332. Sabry, K., & Baldwin, L. (2003). Web-based learning interaction and learning styles. British Journal of Educational Technology, 34(4), 443-454. Schneckenberg, D., Ehlers, U., & Adelsberger, H. (2011). Web 2.0 and competence-oriented design of learning: Potentials and implications for higher education. British Journal of Educational Technology, 42, 747-762. Slahor, S. (2011). What is cloud computing? ProQuest Education Journals, 59(8), 10. Sturgill, A., Martin, W., & Gay G. (1999). Surviving technology: A study of student use of computer-mediated communication to support technology education. International Kournal of Educational Telecommunications, 5(3), 239-259. 213 Sun, P., Tsai, R.J., Finger, G., Chen, Y., & Yeh, D. (2007). What drives a successful e-learning? An eimpirical investigation of the critical factors influencing learner satisfaction. Computers & Education. Doi: 10.1016/j.compedu.2006.11.007 Susa, E.L. (2009). Cloud computing brings cost of protein research down to earth. Eureka Alert! Retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-04/mcowccb0040909.php Swan, K., Shea, P., Fredericken, E., Pickett, A., Pelez, W., & Maher, G. (2000). Building knowledge building communities: Consistencies, contact and communication in the virtual classroom. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 23(4), 359-383. Terell, S. (2002). The effect of learning style on doctoral course completion in a web-based learning environment. Internet and Higher Education, 5(4), 345-352. Tsay, M. & Brady, M. (2010). A case study of cooperative learning and communication pedagogy: Does working in teams make a difference? Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 10(2), 78-89. Vaquero, L.M., Rodero-Merino, L., Caceres, J., & Lindner, M. (2008). A break in the clouds: Towards a cloud definition. SIGCOMM Comput. Commun. Rev., 39, 50-55. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society. Cambridge, MA: Harvard UP. Wang, J. (2013). Perceptions of mobile assisted e-cooperative learning quality. Asian Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities, 2(3), 1-10. Retrieved from http://www.ajssh.leenaluna.co.jp/AJSSHPDFs/Vol.2(3)/AJSSH2013(2.3-01).pdf Wang, J., Yu, W.W., & Wu, E. (2013). Empowering mobile assisted social e-learning: Students’ expectations and perceptions. World Journal of Education, 3(2), 59-70. Wang, S. (2014). Collaboration factors and quality of learning experience on interactive mobile assisted social e-learning. The Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology, 13(2), 24-34. Retrieved from http://www.tojet.net/articles/v13i2/1323.pdf Webster, J., & Hackley, P. (1997). Teaching effectiveness in technology-mediated distance learning. Academy of Management Journal, 40(6), 1282-1309. Woo, Y. & Reeves, T. (2008). Interaction in asynchronous Web-based learning environments: Strategies supported by educational research. Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, 12(3-4), 179-194. Zhou, M. (2011). Learning styles and teaching styles in college English teaching. International Education Studies, 4(1), 73-77. Zhu, H. (2009). The applied research of cloud computing in the construction of e-learning environment. China Educational Technology, 4, 105-107.
Year 2017, Volume: 18 Issue: 3, 197 - 213, 01.07.2017
https://doi.org/10.17718/tojde.328954

Abstract

References

  • Anderson, N. J. (2005). L2 learning strategies. In E. Hinkel (Ed.), Handbook of Research in Second Language Teaching and Learning (pp. 757-771). New York, NY: Routledge. Biasutti, M. (2009). Evaluating a music e-learning resource: The participants’ perspective. Computers & Education, 53(3), 541-549. Biasutti, M. (2011). The student experience of a collaborative e-learning university module. Computers & Education, 57(3), 1865-1875. Borau, K., Ullrish, C., Feng, J., & Feng, R. (2009). Microblogging for language learning: Using twitter to train communicative and cultural competence. Advances in Web Based Learning, 78-87. Broin, D.O., & Raftery, D. (2011). Using Google Docs to support project-based learning. All Ireland Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 3(1). URL: http://ojs.aishe.org/index.php/aishe-j/article/view/35 Chamot, A. U. (2005). Language learning strategy instruction: Current issues and research. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 25(2995), 112-130. Cohen, A.D. (1998). Strategies in Learning and Using a Second Language. London, UK: Longman Conner, N. (2008). Google Apps: The missing manual. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media. Curry, L. (1987). Integrating Concepts of Cognitive or Learning Style: A review with attention to psychometric standards. Ottawa, Canada: Canadian College of Health Service Executives. Deters, F., Cuthrell, K., & Stapleton, J. (2010).Why wikis? Student perceptions of using wikis in online coursework. Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, 6(1), 122-134. Dippold, D. (2009). Peer feedback through blogs: Student and teacher perceptions in an advanced German class. ReCALL, 21(1), 18-36. Doolittle, P.E. & Hicks, D. (2003). Constructivism as a theoretical foundation for the use of technology in social studies. Theory and Research in Social Education, 31(1), 72-104. 211 Ebner, M., Lienhardr, C., Rohs, M., & Meyer, I. (2009). Microblogs in higher education- A chance to facilitate informal and process-oriented learning? Computers & Education, 55, 92-100. Google (2015). Collaborate on docs. Google for Education, Tech Rep. Retrieved from https://www.google.co.in/intl/en_in/edu/products/productivity-tools/ Grosseck, G., & Holotesku, C. (2008). Can we use twitter for educational activities? Paper to be presented at the 4th International Scientific Conference eLSE eLearning and Software for Education. Retrieved from http://portaldoprofessor.mec.gov.br/storage/materiais/0000012008.pdf Gurpinar, E., Alimoglu, M.K., Mamakli, S., & Aktekin, M. (2010). Can learning style predicting student satisfaction with different instruction methods and academic achievement in medical education? Advances in Physiology Education, 34, 192-196. Hara, N., & Kling, R. (1999). Students’ frustrations with a Web-based distance education course. First Monday, 4(12). Retrieved from http://www.firstmonday.org/issues/issues4_12/hara/ Honey, P., & Mumford, A. (2006). The Learning Styles Questionnaire, 80-item version. Maidenhead, UK: Peter Honey. Honeycutt, C., & Herring, S.C. (2009). Beyound microblogging: Conversation and collaboration via Twitter. Proceedings of the Forth-Second Hawaii International Conference on System Sciences (HICSS-42). Los Alamitos, CA: IEEE. Retrieved from http://info.ils.indiana.edu/~herring/honeycutt.herring.2009.pdf Jabbour, K.K. (2013). Cloud computing concepts for academic collaboration. Bulgarian Journal of Science and Education Policy, 7(1), 38-48. Katz, R.N. (2008). The Tower and the Cloud: Higher education in the age of cloud computing. Boulder, CO: EDUCAUSE. Kearsley, G. (2000). Online Education: Learning and teaching in cyberspace. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Thomson Learning. Keefe, J. W. (1991). Leaning Style: Cognitive & thinking skills. Reston, VA: National Association of Secondary School Principals. Kinsella, K. (1995). Understanding and empowering diverse learners. In J. M. Reid (Ed.), Learning Styles in the ESL/EFL Classroom (pp. 170-194). Boston, MA: Heinle. Koch, M. (2010). Utilizing emergent web-based software tools as an effective method for increasing collaboration and knowledge sharing in collocated student design teams. (Master’s thesis, University of Oregon). Retrieved from http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/xmlui/handle/1957/16855 Koh, E., & Lim, J. (2012). Using online collaboration applications for group assignments: The interplay between design and human characteristics. Computers & Education, 59(2), 481-496. Kolb, D. (1985). Learning Style Inventory. Boston, MA: McBer. Liaw, S., & Huang, H. (2007). Developing a collaborative e-learning system based on users’ perceptions. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, 4402, 751-759. 212 Lin, C., Yu, W.W., & Wang, J. (2014). Cloud collaboration: Cloud-based instruction for business writing class. World Journal of Education, 4(6), 9-15. Retrieved from http://www.sciedu.ca/journal/index.php/wje/article/view/5884/3517 Loo, R. (2004). Kolb’s learning styles and learning preferences: Is there a linkage? Educational Psychology, 24, 99-108. Mell, P., & Grance, T. (2011). The NIST Definition of Cloud Computing. U.S. Department of Commerce Std. Special Publication, 800-145. Microsoft (2015). Cloud computing in education. Microsoft US Education, Tech Rep. Retrieved from http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/education/default.aspx Moor, M.G., & Kearsley, G. (1996). Distance Education: A systems view. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth. Oblinger, D. & Oblinger, J (2005). Is it age or IT: First steps Toward Understanding the Net Generation, Educause. Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/research-andpublications/books/educating-net-generation/it-age-or-it-first-steps-towardunderstanding-net-generation Oxford, R. L., & Anderson, N. (1995). A crosscultural view of learning styles. Language Teaching, 28(4), 201-215. Oxford, R., Hollaway, M., & Horton-Murrillo, D. (1992). Language learning style and strategies in the multicultural, tertiary L2 classroom. System, 20(3), 439-456. Parker, K.R., & Chao, J.T. (2007). Wiki as a teaching tool. Interdisciplinary Journal of Knowledge and Learning objects, 3, 57-72. Piccoli, G., Ahmad, R., & Ives, B. (2001). Web-based virtual learning environments: A research framework and a preliminary assessment of effectiveness in basic IT skill training. MIS Quarterly, 25(4), 401-426. Prensky, M. (2001). Digital natives, Digital Immigrants. On the Horizon, 9(5), 1-6. Robinson, G. (2002). Do general practioners’ risk-taking propensities and learning styles influence their continuing medical education preferences? Med Tech, 24, 71-78. Rovai, A.P. (2002). Sense of community, perceived cognitive learning, and persistence in asynchronous learning networks. Internet and Higher Education, 5(4), 319-332. Sabry, K., & Baldwin, L. (2003). Web-based learning interaction and learning styles. British Journal of Educational Technology, 34(4), 443-454. Schneckenberg, D., Ehlers, U., & Adelsberger, H. (2011). Web 2.0 and competence-oriented design of learning: Potentials and implications for higher education. British Journal of Educational Technology, 42, 747-762. Slahor, S. (2011). What is cloud computing? ProQuest Education Journals, 59(8), 10. Sturgill, A., Martin, W., & Gay G. (1999). Surviving technology: A study of student use of computer-mediated communication to support technology education. International Kournal of Educational Telecommunications, 5(3), 239-259. 213 Sun, P., Tsai, R.J., Finger, G., Chen, Y., & Yeh, D. (2007). What drives a successful e-learning? An eimpirical investigation of the critical factors influencing learner satisfaction. Computers & Education. Doi: 10.1016/j.compedu.2006.11.007 Susa, E.L. (2009). Cloud computing brings cost of protein research down to earth. Eureka Alert! Retrieved from http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2009-04/mcowccb0040909.php Swan, K., Shea, P., Fredericken, E., Pickett, A., Pelez, W., & Maher, G. (2000). Building knowledge building communities: Consistencies, contact and communication in the virtual classroom. Journal of Educational Computing Research, 23(4), 359-383. Terell, S. (2002). The effect of learning style on doctoral course completion in a web-based learning environment. Internet and Higher Education, 5(4), 345-352. Tsay, M. & Brady, M. (2010). A case study of cooperative learning and communication pedagogy: Does working in teams make a difference? Journal of the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, 10(2), 78-89. Vaquero, L.M., Rodero-Merino, L., Caceres, J., & Lindner, M. (2008). A break in the clouds: Towards a cloud definition. SIGCOMM Comput. Commun. Rev., 39, 50-55. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in Society. Cambridge, MA: Harvard UP. Wang, J. (2013). Perceptions of mobile assisted e-cooperative learning quality. Asian Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities, 2(3), 1-10. Retrieved from http://www.ajssh.leenaluna.co.jp/AJSSHPDFs/Vol.2(3)/AJSSH2013(2.3-01).pdf Wang, J., Yu, W.W., & Wu, E. (2013). Empowering mobile assisted social e-learning: Students’ expectations and perceptions. World Journal of Education, 3(2), 59-70. Wang, S. (2014). Collaboration factors and quality of learning experience on interactive mobile assisted social e-learning. The Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology, 13(2), 24-34. Retrieved from http://www.tojet.net/articles/v13i2/1323.pdf Webster, J., & Hackley, P. (1997). Teaching effectiveness in technology-mediated distance learning. Academy of Management Journal, 40(6), 1282-1309. Woo, Y. & Reeves, T. (2008). Interaction in asynchronous Web-based learning environments: Strategies supported by educational research. Journal of Asynchronous Learning Networks, 12(3-4), 179-194. Zhou, M. (2011). Learning styles and teaching styles in college English teaching. International Education Studies, 4(1), 73-77. Zhu, H. (2009). The applied research of cloud computing in the construction of e-learning environment. China Educational Technology, 4, 105-107.
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Journal Section Articles
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Jenny Wang This is me

Publication Date July 1, 2017
Submission Date July 17, 2017
Published in Issue Year 2017 Volume: 18 Issue: 3

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APA Wang, J. (2017). Cloud Computing Technologies in Writing Class: Factors Influencing Students’ Learning Experience. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education, 18(3), 197-213. https://doi.org/10.17718/tojde.328954