Relation between learning outcomes and verbal and non-verbal information in group work for knowledge acquisition

Abstract

This study aims to elucidate the relationship between communication and learning outcomes during group work, a learning modality associated with active learning. Hence, we examined the interplay between learning outcomes, activity level, subjective assessment of communication, and linguistic aspects-such as parts of speech, speech acts, and intricate body movements. The findings uncovered that learning outcomes were attainable in scenarios characterized by heightened response utterances, exemplified by affirmations such as “yes” accompanied by concomitant nodding gestures. Furthermore, increased learner engagement was observed in response to explicit, content-focused explanations, supplemented by illustrative gestures from the speaker’s hand. Additionally, subjective communication appraisal was increased, resulting in enhanced group work.