Abstract
We conducted a research as part of “Assessment of Learning Outcomes in Online Higher Education,” a sub-theme of the JACUE-supported study “Possibilities for Higher Education in COVID-19: Subjects, Methods and Contents” (2021-23). After reviewing the results of our survey conducted on the US last year and previous studies done in Japan, we made (1) checking applicantsʼ aptitude, (2) student learning and learning support, and (3) educational outcomes the focus of this study. Our subjects were from educational courses primarily for adults: The Graduate School of Instructional Systems at Kumamoto University, a primarily-online curriculum inaugurated in 2006; and The Training Program of Practical Educator, a professional-school certificate program at The Graduate School of Social Design, which was established in 2020 primarily with online classes due to COVID-19.
In June 2022, we presented a case report for each course at the JACUE annual conference. The case reports and corresponding Q&A sessions highlighted the following points. (1) Preparing a physical learning environment that includes online broadcasting equipment. With regard to the human learning environment and student learning support: (2) Instructorsʼ proficiency in teaching online; and (3) guaranteeing opportunities for face-to-face interaction between students and instructors and setting up shared housing or other environments conducive to students building networks among themselves. With regard to the assessment of educational outcomes: (4) Specifying the learning objectives and how they are assessed, and ensuring studentsʼ understanding thereof; (5) how to use formative assessments and conduct summative assessments; and (6) continued self-improvement after graduation and using that to maintain and improve educational outcomes.
