Understanding the Impact of Location-Based Learning on Pupils' Attitudes

Abstract

This project has investigated the effects of location-based learning on pupils satisfaction, motivation and engagement in educational situations. A mobile application utilizing beacon technology has been constructed, alongside a web portal for teachers to update curriculum content to be shown at each location. The mobile application has been evaluated with a time series design experiment, where pupils have been asked to evaluate a course before and after utilizing the mobile application. 58 pupils have presented feedback, both quantitatively and qualitatively, through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. The pupils were recruited from three different classes and two schools. They were in their eighth and twelfth school year. The results of the research show a significant increase in pupils satisfaction, t (57) = 4.682, p < 0.001, with the course and their motivation, t (57) = 5.503, p < 0.001, towards it. No significant positive effect was found for engagement. Evaluating the use of the mobile application for a longer timeframe is suggested as further work in order to reveal the effects of longtime use of the mobile application. Additionally, experiments testing for increased learning outcome are applicable.