Effect of E-lessons using social networking services as an educational tool

Abstract

[Purpose] In this study we looked at the effect of experimental use of e-learning using social networking services (SNS) in lessons at a physical therapy vocational school. [Methods] In an internal course of physical therapies for disabilities at the physical therapy vocational school, SNS lessons were undertaken by 40 second year students from October 2007, and we looked at the changes between before and after the lessons as measured by a general self-efficacy scale (GSES). Also, on completion of the lessons we undertook a survey and from the results of free responses describing the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing SNS in learning, we generalized and classified common responses. [Results] No significant difference was found in the GSES between before and after the SNS lessons. From the results of the survey performed on completion of the SNS lessons, the effects of SNS could be seen in some distinctive features based on the effect of e-learning. [Conclusion] The distinctive features were that, SNS lessons could be taken anywhere and at any time, it was easy to accept other students opinions in the community and to take tutorials, and the information remained on the web, an environment where it could be reviewed repeatedly. Utilizing these features, we need to move ahead with more effective and more developmental e-learning.