Singapore:

Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

Japan:

The University of Tokyo

National Institute of Multimedia Education (NIME)

Supported by:

IBM Japan, Ltd.

Abstract

The University of Tokyo and the National Institute of Multimedia Education, Japan, together with Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, developed an international distance learning program to educate test subjects regarding e-commerce and e-government. There were 20 participants from each country, and systems such as SCORM-based WBT materials, and a bulletin board system were used. Effectiveness of this program was examined by analyzing various data acquired during the program.

The Experiment

This project was prepared to meet the following five objectives:

1. Examine the effectiveness of the SCORM-based WBT materials.
2. Examine the effectiveness of the WBT-CSCL integrated distance learning program.
3. Develop an evaluation system in the CSCL program and its evaluation.
4. Examine whether cultural differences and problems exist among the participants of the CSCL program in Japan and Singapore.
5. Examine the effectiveness of the WBT-video conference integrated distance learning program.

A learning program was developed covering various topics of e-commerce and e-government issues. The content of the program consisted of the following:

1. On-demand lectures using streaming videos.
2. Web-based training materials with tests and questionnaires.
3. Asynchronous discussions using a bulletin board system.
4. Synchronous discussions using a videoconference system.

   
   WBT unit

   
   Discussions on a bulletin board system

Analyses were conducted based on various data, including the test results of the learners, discussion data in CSCL such as bulletin board logs, and answers to the questionnaires.

Outcome

Positive results were observed from the analyses, though certain problems existed.

1. Test results indicate that it was effective for participants' learning, both in Japan and Singapore.
2. More than half of the messages on the discussion bulletin board system were advanced in level. Therefore, the content learned in WBT was utilized effectively in CSCL.
3. Analyses by the developed evaluation system presented high accuracy. It generally agreed with the subjective evaluation by the learners and by the third party.
4. Some cultural differences were found. For example, there were different reactions when counterarguments occurred during the discussion where Japanese participants tended to emphasize harmonization.
5. The knowledge acquired in WBT was effectively applied in discussions using the videoconference. However, audio problems from IP-based communication made the discussion difficult.

Evaluating this project as a whole, the following was concluded: methods used in this program work effectively for educational purposes, but concerning the system, though it operates without any major problem, improvements shall be made on its usability and adaptation to the users' environment.