Measuring the value of a digital supplemental resource

Area of Science:

• Science Education
• Physiology Education
• Digital Learning Tools

Background:

• Supplemental resources are traditionally used in science education to enhance learning.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for digital supplemental resources.
• Student perception of a resource's benefit is crucial for its adoption and effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure student perceptions of a specific digital supplemental resource in physiology.
• To examine the dimensionality and functionality of a survey assessing these perceptions.
• To develop an improved, standardized survey for evaluating digital learning tools in science education.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to collect data on student perceptions.
• Quantitative methods, including exploratory factor analysis, were employed.
• The study focused on assessing the reliability and validity of the survey instrument.

Main Results:

• The study identified key factors influencing student perception of digital resources.
• Exploratory factor analysis provided insights into the survey's structure and effectiveness.
• Findings supported the development of a more robust and standardized assessment tool.

Conclusions:

• A reliable and valid survey can effectively measure student perceptions of digital supplemental resources.
• This standardized survey can guide educators and institutions in prioritizing and recommending digital learning tools.
• Improved measurement of student perception is essential for effective investment in educational technology.