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This article investigates the relationship between Web-based learning and Critical thinking (CT) in a web-based course on the fundamentals of Information Technology at a university in Montreal, Canada. In particular, it will identify what part(s) of the course and to what extent, critical thinking is perceived to occur. The course contains two categories of learning modules namely resources and interactive activity components. The study aimed at answering the following questions: (1) What is the effect of the learning modules on Critical Thinking? and (2) What is the relative contribution of the various learning modules on Critical Thinking skills requirements?

Aim/PurposeTeaching and learning is no longer the same and the paradigm shift has not settled yet. Information technology (IT) and its worldwide use impacts student learning methods and associated pedagogical models. BackgroundIn this study we frame immersive learning as a method that we believe can be designed by pedagogical models such as experiential, constructivist, and collaborative elements. We also present a peer-to-peer interactive web based learning tool, designed and implemented in-house with immersive learning features. MethodologyWe conducted an exploratory research with a Ph.D course on "pedagogical methods" where 9 doctoral students were tasked to follow the peer-to-peer 3 phase process in their learning. ContributionWe found the peer-to-peer does favor experiential, constructivist, collaborative learning, which contributes into the use of immersive learning as an important learning style for the future. FindingsThis study investigated different ways to measure students' collaboration, constructivism through their peer evaluation scores and performance in an immersive learning environment by taking the roles of teacher, evaluator, and learner. Recommendations for PractitionersAn in-depth understanding of immersive learning methods allows the application of Experiential Immersive Learning (EIL) in various disciplines of professional training, which can increase performance and engagement. Further studies should be made to adjust and polish our understanding of the peer-to-peer tool in order to gain a deeper understanding of customized learning.

This article investigates students' perceptions of the relationship between Problem-Solving and the activities and resources used in a Web-based course on the fundamentals of Information Technology at a university in Montreal, Canada. We assess for the different learning components of the course, the extent of perceived problem-solving skills acquisition including research, creativity and critical thinking skills. The course entailed two categories of learning, namely resources-based and interactive components. The study aimed at answering the following questions: 1) To what extent do students understand the definitions of Problem-solving, Research, and Creative Idea Generation skills, and Critical Thinking skills? (2) What is the relative contribution of the various learning components (activities and resources) of the course to the perceived acquisition of Problem-Solving, Research, and Creative Idea Generations skills, and Critical Thinking skills; (3) Is the understanding of the definitions correlated with the perceived contributions of the learning components (activities and resources) of the course to the skills development? (4) To what extent is perceived Problem-solving skill acquisition explained by the acquisition of the other three skills?

This paper compares students' perceptions of support provided in the acquisition of various thinking and team-building skills, resulting from the various activities, resources and technologies (ART) integrated into but moderate support from the online resources and technologies provided in the course, which was in opposition to the grades received. It also seems that those in the traditional computer lab setting perceived online resources as more supportive of higher-order thinking skills than those in other sections and those in the electronic classroom perceived the least support. The results were mixed for team-building skills and for material in Blackboard less important for developing these skills than onsite students.

Aim/Purpose: To understand readiness of students for learning in online environments across different age groups. Background: Online learners today are diverse in age due to increasing adult/mature students who continue their higher education while they are working. Understanding the influence of the learners’ age on their online learning experience is limited. Methodology: A survey methodology approach was followed. A sample of one thousand nine hundred and twenty surveys were used. Correlation analysis was performed. Contribution: The study contributes by adding to the limited body of knowledge in this area and adds to the dimensions of the Online Learning Readiness Survey additional dimensions such as usefulness, tendency, anxiety, and attitudes. Findings: Older students have more confidence than younger ones in computer proficiency and learning skills. They are more motivated, show better attitudes and are less anxious. Recommendations for Practitioners: Practitioners should consider preferences that allow students to configure the learning approach to their age. These preferences should be tied to the dimensions of the online learning readiness survey (OLRS). Recommendations for Researchers: More empirical research is required using OLRS for online learning environments. OLRS factors are strong and can predict student readiness and performance. These are opportunities for artificial intelligence in the support of technology-mediated tools for learning.

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