Analyzing the Effectiveness of Tutorial Learning Aids in a Course Management System

Abstract

While there is an abundance of literature regarding the value of assigning homework in mathematics and the benefits students receive when completing homework, whether online or traditionally; there seems to be a lack of research examining specific courseware systems and their tutorial learning aids. The purpose of this study was to determine if tutorial learning aids used when completing homework online using the course management system MyMathLab improved mathematics learning and achievement. A quasi-experimental pre/posttest design was used to examine data for 84 college students enrolled in multiple sections of a redesigned elementary algebra course at a large university. Students were either in the control group with access to two learning aids when completing homework or in the experimental group with access to only one learning aid. Data analysis revealed there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups and our results suggest that homework, unit test, and final exam grades are not affected by the use of tutorial learning aids available in MyMathLab. Student survey results were also discussed.