School of Business professors’ research paper on students' opinion regarding the use of electronic aid as an instruction tool accepted for publica
“Business student opinions towards use of spreadsheets as an instructional tool” research by Drs. Akash Dania and Clyde Posey, ASU School of Business professors, was recently accepted for publication in the Journal of Business, Industry and Economics.
Many universities and educators have use electronic aids such as spreadsheets and other visual presentation media for instructional purposes. Several textbooks now include electronic aid based solutions as part of the instructor materials that accompany the textbook. The convenience of these materials may lead instructors into thinking that this tool is a viable way to present subject materials. But is that really the case? Do students feel that spreadsheets provide an effective tool for demonstrating applied course material? Purpose of this study was to determine if students feel as if they are effectively learning materials demonstrated using electronic aid, such as spreadsheets.
The results from this study indicate preference of students for the use of electronic aid in classrooms as a teaching aid. However, students did not indicate a strong preference for an “all electronic aid designed class” indicating preference for a “balanced approach” between traditional lecture techniques and use of electronic aid. These results correspond with the related literature that suggests that though electronic aid have been rising in popularity, there is a need for “continued refinement” in their application.
“The importance of this study is several fold,” said Dr. Dania. “Knowledge of student perceptions of the characteristics of electronic aid can be helpful in the design of instructional material and course composition.”
“Also, information on student ‘turn-offs’ can help to avoid procedures which are distasteful to classes,” shared Dr. Posey. “There hasn’t been much research done on this aspect and this paper will serve as an invaluable tool for instructors at Alcorn State University and beyond as universities adopt online instructional methods.”
Furthermore, training students with skills (such as spreadsheets) important to prospective employers is becoming integral in most disciplines, especially business disciplines such as finance and accountancy. Business and other professionals, as well as prospective employers, point out the importance of the problem solving capability or client data analysis with use of technology, particularly computers. Owing to the ongoing trend of globalization and competitiveness, employers’ expectations of skill-set of applicants applying for a job have increased.
For further information on this research activity and to conduct a similar study for your own program, please contact Dr. Akash Dania at [email protected] or 601.304.4388.
