Singh, Harpreet (2021) An Innovative Learning Management Approach for improving learning practices in Australian University Context. PhD thesis, Victoria University.

Abstract

With rapid expansion in knowledge streams over the last few years, the role of relevant education models and mechanisms have become increasingly important. Smarter Learning Management Systems (LMS) devised to enable student learnings at the university level have proven to be effective, yet the previous research points to the lack of employers’ perspective in the design of such systems. To bridge the existing gaps in the learning management systems, this study applied Design Science Research Methodology to design and develop an LMS artefact. This informed by the analysis of qualitative data collected from a random sample of students in graduate and post-graduate programs and teachers from universities in Melbourne, Australia. This artefact is a mobile-based application named Student Career Assistance System (SCAS). SCAS was designed, developed and evaluated in accordance with the DSR methodologies towards creating a solution which caters to the information and learning needs of the students, teachers and employers in an integrated manner. This thesis by publication consists of four papers. Article 1 developed a theoretical analysis based on the Smart Education concept under which a systematic literature review is conducted. The purpose of this work is to provide a theoretical foundation for an initial innovative approach called Students Career Assistance System (SCAS) by describing the present state of Smart Education research. Article 2 initialises the concept of developing a cloud based collective platform with industry involvement in the Learning systems. Article 3 builds and assesses a novel idea of mobile-based learning technology for strengthening current LMS techniques using and assessing Design Science Research Methodology. For this a pilot study has been conducted and interviewed stakeholders. Article 4 details the design research and process towards development of an integrated learning management system and its evaluation using qualitative findings. Qualitative research conducted with user groups both revealed and confirmed the lack of integration of employability functions in existing learning management systems. In case of select systems with employment functions, lack of awareness regarding the same was reported by both students and teachers. Additionally, it was found that separate employment platforms deployed in the institutions were also not being used by the students because of lack of awareness, thereby making a stronger case for inclusion of the employment functionality within the primary LMS. This can allow students to seamlessly greater clarity regarding career pathways after graduation. In fact, students reported lack of clarity about career pathways after graduation because of lack of exposure to the industry employers. Certain functionalities of SCAS like ‘Jobs’ and ‘Portfolios’ also have the potential of saving time and money resources for different user-groups. This study also outlines key areas for the investigation which primarily include security concerns such as data integrity, information confidentiality and entity authentication for data availability. This study concludes through an evaluation of the SCAS artefact, deriving insights and recommendations for further development of the artefact. The key recommendations include integration of existing online products and services to address the privacy and security concerns of the user groups in a manner that enables the platform in facilitating dynamic conversations between the students, teachers and employers.

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