E-learning tools for andragogy: a scale model of technology-based active learning

Andragogy is an educational philosophy on how to facilitate active learning for adult students. It requires instructors to engage students in various learning activities, including problem solving, essay writing, discussions, group projects, and so on. The challenge is how to facilitate student participation and assess learning outcomes. The emergence of e-learning tools, such as Discussion Board, Wiki, Blogs, and Wimba provide technical support for the new learning approach. Based on the review of information systems and education literature, this study develops a taxonomy of e-learning tools. In particular, it proposes a scale model based on the premise that e-learning tools must facilitate both content contribution and content appraisal for students. The taxonomy is validated with a simulation study based on the premises of media synchronicity theory. This framework provides a guideline on how to choose appropriate e-learning tools for various learning activities in the design of online and hybrid courses