Dr Maja Simunjak, Lecturer in Journalism, Middlesex University London
Abstract:
The paper reports findings from two pilot tests that aimed to establish the effectiveness of Prezi presentation technology in actively engaging students with diverse learning needs in pre-seminar learning and revision, by drawing on theories related to inclusive teaching in higher education.
Session summary:
This project examines the effectiveness of Prezi presentation technology in actively engaging students with diverse learning needs in pre-seminar learning and revision. The project draws on theories related to the importance of inclusive teaching in higher education, with particular focus on theories related to learning styles, multi-modal learning and the use of technology in learning.
Prezi’s effectiveness in engaging students with diverse learning needs in pre-seminar learning and revision is tested via two pilot tests. In the first pilot test, a set Prezi (prepared by the lecturer) is given to students as a resource for a flipped classroom (link posted on Moodle). Students are instructed to examine the Prezi and make notes on its content, which is then discussed in class. The second pilot test requires a more active role of students since they are instructed to collaboratively create a Prezi as a revision tool. Both pilot tests are conducted with 2nd year BA Journalism students at Middlesex University. In order to assess students’ experience in using Prezi and the extent of their knowledge retention following the use of Prezi, both quantitative (Socrative test) and qualitative (survey with open-ended questions) evaluation techniques have been used.
Results show that Prezi has a lot of potential to engage students in various tasks, as in both pilot tests all students who attended class when the task was set have engaged with the Prezi. Also, students described it as fun and easy to use. Furthermore, Prezi’s ability to communicate multi-modal elements has been recognized and praised by students in both examples (flipped classroom material and collaborative revision tool). What proved to be particularly important to students is the ability to visually present information and reveal the relationships between elements in a form of a ‘mind map’. This suggests that multi-modal teaching and learning might be considered by students as a useful and valuable technique for understanding key concepts and expressing knowledge of them. Finally, Prezi has been recognized by students as a great resource for collaborative work and peer learning. Hence, it might be used as an inclusive tool for group work that all students can use to express their ideas in many different modes.
Attendee feedback:
Prezi as another technology tool for teaching and learning can be very successful when used in a planned and appropriate manner. Although linear presentations using Power Point are widely used in higher education settings non-linear alternative to those presentation using Prezi may allow students with diverse learning needs to understand material better.
The pilot study showed that although navigating Prezi can be challenging students enjoyed the creative and different way in which the learning materials have been presented. It allows students to independently discover the content of the presentation and collaborate with others on adding the content.