Attributes of engagement in challenge-based digital learning environments

Abstract

© 2018 IADIS Press. All Rights Reserved. This study is part of a research programme investigating the dynamics and impacts of learning engagement in a challenge-based digital learning environment. Learning engagement is a multidimensional concept which includes an individual’s ability to behaviourally, cognitively, emotionally, and motivationally engage in an on-going learning process. Challenge-based learning gives significant freedom to the learner to decide what and when to engage and interact with digital learning materials. In light of previous empirical findings, we expect that learning engagement is positively related to learning performance in a challenge-based digital learning environment. This study was based on data from the Curtin Challenge platform, including transaction data of 13,655 students. Findings indicate that attributes of learning engagement in challenge-based digital learning environments are, as expected, positively related to learning performance. Implications point toward the need for personalised and adaptive learning environments to be developed in order to cater for the individual needs of learners in challenge-based digital learning environments.