Adopting an Active Learning Approach for Teaching and Learning of Web Design Technology: A Guide for Effective Learning

Abstract

This paper presents an Action Research study to enhance student learning in the Web Design Technology course of Diploma Digital Technologies at Polytechnic Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah through the implementation of an active learning method. The study addresses the problems of varied experiences amongst students with web programming languages and computational thinking.  The intervention involved implementing five approaches: pre & post-test, guided hands-on practice, project-based learning, collaborative coding projects/ gamification, and Interactive Flipbook. The idea and purpose behind active learning was to improve the student’s capability for learning as well as their ability to think computationally. The study involved 64 4th semester students enrolled in the web design technology course. The study was conducted over 15 weeks using observation, interview, document analysis, and schema. The students that participated in the intervention and were evaluated utilizing formative assessments while doing their practical work resulted in favourable outcomes for all five approaches. According to the study's findings, notions of active learning can potentially improve students' learning capabilities and significantly enhance student learning outcomes, as shown by higher formative assessment scores and increased engagement in the learning process. In conclusion, active learning methods can effectively increase student learning outcomes in Web Design Technology courses and can be further explored.