Enhancing Student Learning through the Integration of Connectivism Theory in Blended Learning Environments

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study investigated the impact of integrating connectivism theory in blended learning environments on student learning outcomes in two private high schools in the Philippines. A total of 200 students from Grade 11 and Grade 12 participated in the study, with 100 students in the experimental group and 100 students in the control group. The study used a pre-test and post-test design to assess the students' learning outcomes, as well as a survey questionnaire to assess their perceptions of connectivism-based instruction in blended learning environments. The results showed that the experimental group, which received connectivism-based instruction, had significantly higher mean scores on the critical thinking test and problem-solving test compared to the control group, which received traditional instruction. The survey results also revealed that the students in the experimental group had positive perceptions of connectivism-based instruction, particularly on the effectiveness of the online learning activities, the usefulness of the online resources, and the quality of the online interactions. Moreover, the regression analysis showed that the students' perceptions of online learning activities and online interactions had a significant positive impact on their learning outcomes. This study provides evidence of the effectiveness of integrating connectivism theory in blended learning environments in improving student learning outcomes in the Philippine context. The findings suggest that connectivism-based instruction can be a viable approach to enhance student learning and engagement in the 21st-century learning environment. The study contributes to the existing literature on connectivism theory and blended learning, particularly in the Philippine setting, and provides implications for educators and policymakers in designing and implementing effective instructional strategies that integrate technology and social networks.