D.B.A.  Baker College (Michigan), 2019.
Specialization:  Educational technology; Education

The effects of today's technology on student learning in higher education
118 pages. UMI #: 13427430
Citation, Abstract & Full text in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database

The purpose of this research was to present a synthesis of evidence of the impact of the use of computer-based technology on Generation Y in the areas of learning capabilities, thinking, and the impact of computer-based technology on academic achievement in an online postsecondary environment. Generation Y is defined as a birthdate between 1980 and 1994. An overview of the wider research into the impact of technology on learning, education and critical thinking provides the context and the rationale for this information and how it may relate to the overall effectiveness of preparing students to be successful in the future. Evidence from meta-analysis and other qualitative syntheses of research into the impact of computer-based technology on students from a student’s perspective was revealed. A virtual classroom discussion is a discussion between participants using a learning management system (LMS) in which the researcher may have some key discussion questions formulated in advance. This study used Google Classroom as the LMS platform. While a structured interview has a rigorous set of questions from which one is not allowed to divert, a virtual classroom discussion is open, allowing new ideas to be brought up during the discussion because of what the participant says. The participants responded to discussion questions, as well as other participants’ responses. The study used online students who are pursuing their degrees from various accredited postsecondary online schools to gather information about their experiences with computer-based technology and how it may have affected their educational journey. The purpose of this research was to identify implications for future investment in the use of technology for learning in schools, life, and other aspects of life. Technologies are now embedded in society. Focus has shifted from whether to use them in teaching and learning, to understanding which technologies can be used for what specific educational purposes and then to investigate how best they can be used and embedded across the range of educational contexts in schools and possibly life.

• Mary Dereshiwsky, Ph.D., Chair
• Peggy Houghton, Ph.D.
• Helen Bojarczyk, Ph.D.