An investigation into interactive Teaching Methods and their impact on Student engagement in a third level Institute of Technology

Abstract

It is largely accepted that technology has the potential to improve many different aspects of one’s life and there is no doubt that technology is everywhere; it features in every aspect of our lives. For some years in education, there has been a change towards Electronic or E- Learning; it forms part of the teaching and learning vision of most Irish third level institutes and universities (Donnelly and O’Rourke 2007). This study aimed to investigate whether the use of technology will enhance the students’ learning experience, and ultimately allow them to learn more deeply. A mono-method approach was undertaken using quantitative surveys distributed online to lecturers and students in a third level Institute of Technology. The surveys were used to establish perceptions and the prevalence of use of interactive methods of teaching and learning. Two hundred and thirty students and forty eight lecturers responded to the online surveys during the height of the Coronavirus pandemic. Responses were received from lecturers in every department in the institute. Findings from this research were largely corroborated by extant literature. Most students revealed that they would be more likely to attend lectures where interactive methods of teaching and learning were employed. Recommendations for future study would include duplication of this research as part of collaborative research with other Institutes of Technology across Ireland. Using focus groups for conversation on what methods are working and why could also prove helpful.