ERIC Number: EJ1449226
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 23
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1937-0814
EISSN: EISSN-1937-0822
An Independent Virtual Mathematics Program for Middle-Grades Learners: Using Screencasts to Support Students' Mathematical Knowledge and Motivation
Kaitlyn M. Sorochka; Vecihi S. Zambak
Middle Grades Research Journal, v13 n3 p5-27 2024
Recent literature justifies the use of virtual learning in supporting middle-grades students' mathematical knowledge development and emphasizes the critical role of motivation in learning (Lo & Hew, 2020; Murphy et al., 2020; Spitzer & Musslick, 2021). Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation both play a role in learning for middle-grades students, but the specific impacts of both for the online setting are not heavily studied in this population outside the classroom (Edwards et al., 2017; Ryan & Deci, 2020; Wilkie & Sullivan, 2018). To fill the gap in the literature, in this study, we designed and implemented a 12-week Voluntary Independent Virtual Mathematics Program (VIVMP) to improve middle-grades students' mathematical knowledge while also investigating students' motivation for virtual learning. The intent of the intervention program was to review concepts taught in school and help students reinforce mathematical knowledge. Each week, students were engaged with custom-made screencasts on grade-specific mathematical topics and completed a virtual practice assignment. To investigate student motivation regarding their interest in learning mathematics and being engaged with the VIVMP, students completed identical pre- and post-program surveys. Data from the pre- and post-surveys were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test with SPSS. Participants were interviewed on their experience with the program and their motivation for learning mathematics in the VIVMP. Students' motivation was analyzed regarding Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory (2020) to understand its role in online learning for middle-grades mathematics students. Students' mathematical knowledge scores demonstrated that they performed moderately well after viewing the screencasts.
Descriptors: Middle School Mathematics, Middle School Students, Electronic Learning, Student Motivation, Mathematics Achievement, Mathematics Instruction, Learner Engagement, Learning Motivation, Student Attitudes, Educational Technology, Program Effectiveness
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Junior High Schools; Middle Schools; Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: New Jersey
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A