![Sample our Computer Science journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5928/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Computer-Science.jpg"})
Abstract
The use of ICTs to enhance education is challenging, especially when institutions lack the resources to build efficient technologies. The use of ICTs, however, can facilitate processes and communication—elements that are essential to create a supportive school environment and enhance student learning motivation. In this study, we assess the effectiveness of OdontoApp,Footnote1 a tool created using a free-service provider with the goal of improving communication and centralizing processes in a dentistry program at a university in Ecuador, using Self-Determination Theory and the Motivational Technology Model as theoretical frameworks. Through a survey study (N = 114), we found that features of the App that enhance a sense of relatedness increase students’ learning motivation. However, the benefits of the app are contingent on students’ acceptance of learning technologies and how promptly they receive answers to their queries.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Notes
1 English translation: DentalApp.
2 Students from two classes received extra credit for their participation.
3 English translation: DentalConnect.
4 Examples of participant responses presented in this article were originally in Spanish and were translated to English for reporting purposes.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Francisco Molina
Francisco Molina is a full-time instructor at Universidad Hemisferios (Quito-Ecuador) with over 30 years of experience in his private practice—Consultorio Molina.
Maria D. Molina
Maria D. Molina is an Assistant Professor in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences at Michigan State University. Her studies investigate how technology shapes what we share on social media and how we respond to digital technologies for social good such as motivating healthy habits and learning.
Carlos Molina
Carlos Molina is a Ph.D. student in clinical dentistry with a concentration in periodontology at Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, and part-time instructor at Universidad Hemisferios. He also works at a private practice in Quito-Ecuador.