Active Learning in Online Courses: An Examination of Students’ Learning Experience

This study examines students' perception toward their learning experience in an e-learning environment where active learning through regular and routine graded discussion activities/assignments is expected. Attention was given to the variables of age; gender; increased experience with online courses; and increased proficiency with the course management system. Gender was found to be a significant factor in regards to students' perception toward their learning experience in online courses. Discussion is carried out based on the results of the study. The discussion then shifts to a focus upon strengthening active learning in online courses and common ways in which active learning can be used effectively in online courses. Conclusions and recommendations for future research complete the paper.