Technology-Enhanced Learning in Higher Education

Research themes

The Technology-Enhanced Learning (TEL) research programme bridges research and practice of educational technologies. Using mixed methods we explore the potential of technology to redefine the boundaries and possibilities of learning and teaching in higher education.

We recognise the enthusiasm for use of technology in learning often outstrips careful research into it, how and under what conditions technology may positively impact learning. This group therefore approaches TEL through a critical engagement, with the intention of furthering both research and practice.

Our multidisciplinary expertise encompasses (but is not limited to): mobile learning, immersive reality, wearable technologies, technology enhanced simulation, design-based research, authentic learning, ePortfolios, educational technology, online learning (and confusion in online learning), the flipped-classroom, learning analytics, digital feedback, the Scholarship of Technology-Enhanced Learning (SoTEL), and the potential for technology to enable the development of learner and teacher creativity and the capacity to navigate the unknown.

Focus areas

• Self-regulation and confusion in digital learning environments
• Learning analytics in understanding interaction and engagement
• Impact of new and emerging tech in higher education (mobile, immersive, wearable, biometrics)
• Feedback in digital learning environments

Methods and methodological approach (including a systematic and critical reimagining of the Scholarship of Technology-Enhanced Learning):

• Mixed methods approaches
• Design-based research approaches
• Learning analytic approaches
• Naturalistic and experimental approaches
• Establishment of the Melbourne CSHE SoTEL research network

Staff who are interested in gaining international accreditation for their experience and expertise in integrating technology in teaching and learning may wish to register for a Melbourne CSHE-hosted cMOOC (connectivist Massive Open Online Course) to help them develop their eportfolio. See the CMALT cMOOC page for more information.

Research team

• Associate Professor Thomas Cochrane, Associate Professor (Technology Enhanced Learning)
• Professor Gregor Kennedy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and Professor of Higher Education
• Dr Paula de Barba, Research Fellow
• Dr Chris Deneen, Senior Lecturer in Higher Education Curriculum and Assessment
• Dr Tracii Ryan, Research Fellow in Higher Education
• Vicky Chang, Graduate Researcher
• Thomas Mathew, Graduate Researcher