Research Article
Lan Thi Nguyen, Theeradej Manakul, Kittiya Suthiprapa, Sangeun Han, Kulthida Tuamsuk
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 18, Issue 3, Article No: ep662
ABSTRACT
Smart learning management in schools refers to the integration of various elements designed to enhance learning experiences, promote student engagement, and support improved educational outcomes. This study aimed to examine key factors associated with the implementation of smart learning management in practical projects conducted in schools participating in a smart learning initiative through collaboration between a university and partner schools. The research employed a quantitative cross-sectional survey design involving school administrators and teachers from schools under the Secondary Education Service Area Office in four northeastern provinces of Thailand: Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, and Nakhon Ratchasima. Data were collected through questionnaires from 72 school administrators and 79 teachers. The findings indicate that several dimensions are perceived as important for the implementation of smart learning management, including executive leadership, teacher readiness and motivation, policy and promotional support, and student readiness and motivation. The results also highlight the importance of comprehensive school preparation, such as clear policies, adequate technological infrastructure, supportive learning environments, and effective school management. These findings provide insights into key conditions that support the implementation of smart learning initiatives and may help guide schools and policymakers in strengthening smart learning practices in educational settings.
Keywords: smart learning, learning ecology management, secondary schools, education administrators, schoolteachers
Research Article
Luis Miguel Olórtegui-Alcalde, Franklin Cordova-Buiza
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 18, Issue 3, Article No: ep663
ABSTRACT
This study examines how engagement with information and communication technologies (ICT) relates to university students’ academic performance, considering intrinsic motivation as a mediator and platform usability as an enabling condition. A quantitative, cross-sectional, correlational, and descriptive design was implemented with 385 students from a university in Lima (Peru), selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured 5-point Likert questionnaire measuring platform usability, ICT engagement, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Academic performance was operationalized as self-reported semester GPA using the national 0-20 grading scale. The model was tested using PLS-SEM (SmartPLS 4) with a bootstrapping procedure of 5,000 subsamples. Results indicated a strong association between platform usability and ICT engagement (β = 0.78). ICT engagement showed positive effects on intrinsic motivation (β = 0.64) and extrinsic motivation (β = 0.42). Intrinsic motivation was positively related to academic performance (β = 0.55) and mediated the relationship between ICT engagement and performance (indirect effect = 0.35). Platform usability also exerted an indirect effect on performance through engagement and intrinsic motivation (0.43). Overall, the findings suggest that ICT engagement translates into better academic outcomes primarily when digital platforms are usable and instructional strategies foster intrinsic motivation and autonomous learning.
Keywords: ICT, student engagement, intrinsic motivation, academic performance, PLS-SEM
Research Article
Clara Rocío Henao-Zárate
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 18, Issue 3, Article No: ep664
ABSTRACT
Despite widespread digital access in secondary education, students continue to demonstrate limited capacity for systematic inquiry, critical source evaluation, and evidence-based reasoning—a paradox that existing virtual learning environments have failed to resolve. This article presents the structural dimensions of a conceptual digital learning ecosystem (DLE) designed to strengthen research skills in secondary education, based on a scoping review of 34 studies published between 2019 and 2025. The findings indicate that inquiry-oriented approaches—particularly project-based learning, problem-based learning, and inquiry-based learning—are the most widely adopted strategies; however, their effectiveness depends on their alignment with structured inquiry processes rather than on the mere presence of digital tools. The reviewed studies also emphasize the role of technological infrastructures, collaborative platforms, learning analytics, and artificial intelligence in supporting school-based research. The proposed DLE model represents a shift from content-centered instruction to structured inquiry environments, enabling students to formulate questions, evaluate evidence, design investigations, and communicate findings. The model integrates human, pedagogical, technological, and support components aligned with five key research phases, contributing to the development of autonomy, critical thinking, and inquiry-oriented learning.
Keywords: research skills, digital learning ecosystem, secondary education, project-based learning, educational technology, inquiry-based learning
Research Article
Mary Precy Aguilar, Wondwesen Tafesse
CONT ED TECHNOLOGY, Volume 18, Issue 3, Article No: ep665
ABSTRACT
Virtual reality’s (VR) potential and applications in education gained much interest recently, particularly as a pedagogical tool in higher education. It is well recognized for its immersive nature, promoting interaction and a sense of realism. A noticeable gap exists in the empirical application of VR in business education grounded in a specific learning theory. This study applies Kolb’s experiential learning theory and employs Kolb’s four-stage cycle to examine the impact of VR-immersive pedagogy—an area that remains underexplored. The study is qualitative and uses thematic analysis with ChatGPT as a research tool. While language models, such as ChatGPT, have gained much attention as a research tool, the benefits and limitations must be critically considered. The findings provide a comprehensive narrative of how students engage in the four phases of Kolb’s learning cycle: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experimentation. This study also identified the challenges and practical difficulties encountered in using VR in the classroom. It provides educators with a deeper understanding of the pedagogical impact of VR, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding curriculum design and pedagogy to facilitate experiential learning. This study highlights the potential of language models to enhance qualitative data analysis.
Keywords: virtual reality, student experience, experiential learning, higher education, business education, GenAI