Board # 42 : Exploring Video Projects and Media Literacy in a Computer Networking Course

Abstract

This research paper examines the use of a video project for technical communication in a computer networking course. Communication skills are of critical importance in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) areas. However, communication is often a topic not directly emphasized by STEM educators in the courses they teach. One form of communication that is increasing in significance due to advances in digital technology is digital video. Video is now a primary source of information, yet most people are only consumers not creators of video. In essence, they are not literate in a common form of communication.In this study, we explored the impact of requiring a video term-paper project to address the desired educational goals of increasing student ownership of learning, learning course-related concepts, and providing evidence of communication skills and media literacy skills. Study participants came from convenience samples drawn from a computer networking course and from a general education writing course offered on a small branch campus of a large research university. The participants were college students having varying levels of familiarity with the skills examined.The study design used mixed methodologies, including a quasi-experimental, two-group control/intervention, student surveys, and qualitative interviews. The quasi-experiment consisted of pre-and post-test measurements of media literacy for the two groups, and an intervention of a video term-paper research project completed by the intervention group. Additional data were gathered from student surveys and interviews conducted with the intervention group.The quasi-experiment did not provide evidence that the video project intervention increased knowledge of media-literacy concepts. However, other data indicated that the video project did demonstrate communication skills and that the project was a relevant challenge that engaged students in active participation in their learning.

Student-made Video Projects in Engineering Technology Courses

“…This research combines two previous projects that focus on student communication specifically in utilizing videos as a presentation media. Although some similar research on student-made videos as a means of presentation has been performed, there is very little research in the field (Genereux 2017, Mosier 2016. The authors have performed much of the research on this topic.…”

Recapping Class Content with Student Video Responses

“…[6][7][8] With the advancements of technology, today's students learn by talking through the creation of videos for projects which have also shown to enhance learning. 9,10 In distance education courses, this technique has evolved through the use of student-made video responses. Specifically, a common technique is for students to create discussion posts through short videos, 11 but videos have also been used to respond to video critiques made by the instructor.…”