Comparison of the Effectiveness of Distance Learning for Software Courses in Higher Education: Videos vs. Texts

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Comparison of the Effectiveness of Distance Learning for Software Courses in Higher Education: Videos vs. Texts
Language: English
Authors: Yaron Ghilay
Source: Higher Education Studies. 2025 15(1):30-40.
Availability: Canadian Center of Science and Education. 1595 Sixteenth Ave Suite 301, Richmond Hill, Ontario, L4B 3N9 Canada. Tel: 416-642-2606; Fax: 416-642-2608; e-mail: hes@ccsenet.org; Web site: http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/hes
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 11
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Distance Education, Instructional Effectiveness, Computer Software, Video Technology, Computer Mediated Communication, Auditory Stimuli, Multimedia Instruction, Teacher Student Relationship, Teaching Methods, Foreign Countries, Statistics Education, Business Education, Undergraduate Students, Asynchronous Communication, Academic Achievement, Student Motivation, Learner Engagement
Geographic Terms: Israel (Haifa)
ISSN: 1925-4741
1925-475X
Abstract: This study investigates the effectiveness of video-based learning compared to traditional text-based methods in distance education for software courses. The research was based on two samples of students (n[subscript 1] = 32, n[subscript 2] = 30) enrolled in the "Fundamentals of PSPP" distance course at the N.B. School of Design and Education (PSPP is a free alternative to SPSS). Students were asked to fill in a questionnaire at the end of the year indicating their views on the two methods of learning. Results indicate that students who utilized video content exhibited higher levels of understanding and satisfaction. Videos combining visual and auditory elements were found to significantly enhance learning outcomes by reducing cognitive load and providing clearer demonstrations of software procedures. The study highlights the advantages of video-based learning in fostering a sense of connection between instructors and students, which enhances motivation and engagement in asynchronous learning environments. The study concludes that video-based learning is a superior method compared to text-based learning for teaching complex software skills in distance education, promoting higher student achievement and engagement.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1463718
Database: ERIC
Description
Abstract:This study investigates the effectiveness of video-based learning compared to traditional text-based methods in distance education for software courses. The research was based on two samples of students (n[subscript 1] = 32, n[subscript 2] = 30) enrolled in the "Fundamentals of PSPP" distance course at the N.B. School of Design and Education (PSPP is a free alternative to SPSS). Students were asked to fill in a questionnaire at the end of the year indicating their views on the two methods of learning. Results indicate that students who utilized video content exhibited higher levels of understanding and satisfaction. Videos combining visual and auditory elements were found to significantly enhance learning outcomes by reducing cognitive load and providing clearer demonstrations of software procedures. The study highlights the advantages of video-based learning in fostering a sense of connection between instructors and students, which enhances motivation and engagement in asynchronous learning environments. The study concludes that video-based learning is a superior method compared to text-based learning for teaching complex software skills in distance education, promoting higher student achievement and engagement.
ISSN:1925-4741
1925-475X