Exploring the Role of a Microlearning Instructional Approach in an Introductory Database Programming Course: An Exploratory Case Study

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Title: Exploring the Role of a Microlearning Instructional Approach in an Introductory Database Programming Course: An Exploratory Case Study
Language: English
Authors: Rajagopal Sankaranarayanan (ORCID 0000-0003-1052-0344), Mohan Yang, Kyungbin Kwon
Source: Journal of Computing in Higher Education. 2025 37(3):831-864.
Availability: Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 34
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Tests/Questionnaires
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Introductory Courses, Databases, Programming, Computer Science Education, Online Courses, Computer Assisted Testing, Scores, Microteaching
DOI: 10.1007/s12528-024-09408-2
ISSN: 1042-1726
1867-1233
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of the microlearning instructional approach in an online introductory database programming classroom. The ultimate goal of this study is to inform educators and instructional designers on the design and development of microlearning content that maximizes student learning. Grounded within the frameworks of cognitive theories of learning--Cognitive load theory, Cognitive theory of multimedia learning, and Cognitive, affective theory of learning with media, this exploratory case study collected student assessment data from ten-course topic quizzes and exam scores in midterm and final exams. Additionally, the students' and the course instructor's perceptions while experiencing the microlearning instructional approach were collected and analyzed. As a result, the students scored significantly higher in the course topic quizzes under microlearning instruction compared to the video lectures condition. The students experienced less cognitive load and were more motivated and engaged throughout the learning process under the microlearning instruction. The students also reported some challenges of microlearning instruction, including missing social aspects of learning, fragmented learning for some complex topics, and Canvas LMS platform issues. Overall, this inquiry suggests the potential of microlearning as an instructional approach for introductory programming concepts. Some key implications of the findings are also addressed.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1480293
Database: ERIC
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  Data: Springer. Available from: Springer Nature. One New York Plaza, Suite 4600, New York, NY 10004. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-460-1700; e-mail: customerservice@springernature.com; Web site: https://link.springer.com/
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  Data: The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of the microlearning instructional approach in an online introductory database programming classroom. The ultimate goal of this study is to inform educators and instructional designers on the design and development of microlearning content that maximizes student learning. Grounded within the frameworks of cognitive theories of learning--Cognitive load theory, Cognitive theory of multimedia learning, and Cognitive, affective theory of learning with media, this exploratory case study collected student assessment data from ten-course topic quizzes and exam scores in midterm and final exams. Additionally, the students' and the course instructor's perceptions while experiencing the microlearning instructional approach were collected and analyzed. As a result, the students scored significantly higher in the course topic quizzes under microlearning instruction compared to the video lectures condition. The students experienced less cognitive load and were more motivated and engaged throughout the learning process under the microlearning instruction. The students also reported some challenges of microlearning instruction, including missing social aspects of learning, fragmented learning for some complex topics, and Canvas LMS platform issues. Overall, this inquiry suggests the potential of microlearning as an instructional approach for introductory programming concepts. Some key implications of the findings are also addressed.
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