An Alternative Approach to Distance Education: Lightboard Design

Abstract

New approaches to distance learning can reshape the interaction between students and teachers, and these different approaches can help students engage with the course. This study examines the design and impact of using lightboards in distance learning instead of the commonly used whiteboards in traditional teaching. The aim of the study is to design, develop, implement and evaluate the Lightboard technology to alleviate the challenges in distance learning processes. For this purpose, the challenges in designing the lightboard technology as well as the reactions of students when they first encountered this technology were examined. The study was conducted using a design-based research design. 35 students took part in the study as part of the “Introduction to Scientific Research Methods” course at a university. These students watched a video recorded with a light board and then shared their opinions. An online evaluation form was used as a data collection tool and the qualitative data was evaluated using content analysis. The results show that Lightboard technology increases students' interest in class, makes knowledge more permanent, and has a positive impact on class participation. The integration of visual and auditory elements made the course material more engaging and comprehensible. This approach enhanced students' understanding of the presented content and improved their ability to retain the information. However, it was also noted that the technology presented some difficulties, such as ergonomic problems, the quality of the material used and the lighting. Students reported that the light board enhanced visual expression and facilitated the learning process. However, due to the one-way flow of information, some students were at risk of passive learning. In conclusion, it is emphasized that Lightboard technology can be used as an effective tool in distance learning, but the difficulties encountered in the design and implementation phases should be eliminated. The codes derived from student expressions are as follows: The Power of Visual Expression, Making Knowledge Permanent, Increasing Attention and Focus, Passive Learning Trap, and Tutorial and Facilitating Understanding.

Keywords

• lightboard
• video
• distance education

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